Author Appeals Policy

J-STAR: Journal of Social & Technological Advanced Research

At J-STAR, we strive to maintain a transparent, unbiased, and academically rigorous peer review process. We acknowledge that authors may occasionally disagree with editorial decisions and may wish to request a reconsideration. This policy outlines a clear, fair, and ethical pathway for authors to appeal decisions while safeguarding the integrity of the review process and the high standards of the journal.

1. Valid Grounds for Appeal

Authors may submit an appeal if they believe that:

  • The decision was influenced by a misinterpretation of the manuscript’s data, methodology, or conclusions.

  • Reviewer feedback contained factual inaccuracies or overlooked significant aspects of the work.

  • Evidence exists of potential reviewer/editorial bias, conflict of interest, or breach of ethical review practices.

Appeals must be supported with clear evidence. Appeals based only on dissatisfaction with opinions or judgments will not be entertained.

2. Submitting an Appeal

Timeframe

  • Appeals must be submitted within 20 calendar days of the decision notification.

  • Appeals received beyond this period will only be considered under exceptional circumstances.

Formal Written Appeal

  • Authors must submit a formal appeal letter addressed to the Editor-in-Chief through the journal’s official communication channel.

  • The appeal must:

    • Clearly state the grounds for appeal.

    • Identify specific errors, omissions, or procedural issues.

    • Provide evidence to support the claims.

Optional Supporting Material

  • Authors may submit:

    • A revised manuscript with marked changes.

    • A response document detailing how concerns have been addressed.

3. Appeal Review Process

Initial Editorial Review

  • The Editor-in-Chief will review the appeal, the original manuscript, and related decision files.

  • Input may be sought from the handling editor or a senior editorial advisor.

Further Review (if necessary)
The Editor-in-Chief may:

  • Refer the manuscript and author responses back to the original reviewers.

  • Assign independent reviewers with no prior involvement.

  • Consult the editorial board for an impartial assessment.

Final Decision

  • Possible outcomes include:

    • Upholding the original decision.

    • Inviting revision and resubmission.

    • Accepting the manuscript (with or without additional revisions).

  • The authors will be notified with a written explanation of the decision.

4. Appeal Limitations

  • Only one appeal per manuscript will be considered.

  • Appeals will be evaluated solely on academic and ethical merit.

  • Frivolous, repetitive, or unsubstantiated appeals will not be entertained.

5. Ethical Considerations

  • If an appeal indicates editorial bias, conflict of interest, or ethical misconduct, it will be escalated to the Ethics Committee.

  • Where necessary, corrective actions will be taken in accordance with COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) guidelines, which may include:

    • Reassigning the manuscript.

    • Conducting an independent investigation.

    • Rectifying any procedural errors.

6. Communication and Timeline

  • Acknowledgment: Authors will receive confirmation of receipt within 5 business days.

  • Resolution Period: Appeals will typically be resolved within 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case.

The appeals process ensures fairness, transparency, and the continued integrity of J-STAR: Journal of Social & Technological Advanced Research.