Complaints & Appeals

Complaints & Appeals

Comparative Philosophy and Religious Traditions (CPRT) is committed to fairness, transparency, and accountability in all editorial and publication processes.

The journal provides clear procedures for handling complaints and appeals related to editorial decisions, peer review, publication ethics, and editorial conduct.

1. Appeals Against Editorial Decisions

Authors who believe that an editorial decision was made in error may submit a formal appeal.

Appeals must:

  • Be submitted in writing to the Editorial Office
  • Clearly state the grounds for appeal
  • Provide a reasoned response to reviewer comments
  • Identify any specific factual or procedural concerns

Appeals that merely express disagreement without substantive justification will not be considered.

1.1 Appeal Review Process

Upon receiving an appeal:

  • The Editor-in-Chief conducts an initial review
  • If appropriate, the manuscript may be reassessed
  • Additional independent reviewers may be consulted
  • A final decision is communicated to the author

The decision following an appeal is final.

Appeals are handled independently and do not involve the original reviewers unless clarification is required.

2. Complaints Regarding Editorial Process

Complaints may concern:

  • Delays in peer review
  • Allegations of bias
  • Conflict of interest
  • Unprofessional conduct
  • Breaches of confidentiality

Complaints must be submitted in writing and include sufficient detail to allow investigation.

2.1 Investigation of Complaints

All complaints are:

  • Treated confidentially
  • Investigated impartially
  • Reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief or, if necessary, by a designated editorial board member

If a complaint concerns the Editor-in-Chief, it will be reviewed by a senior member of the Editorial Board or the Publisher. Where appropriate, corrective measures will be implemented.

3. Complaints Related to Publication Ethics

Allegations involving:

  • Plagiarism, Fabrication, or Falsification
  • Undisclosed conflicts of interest
  • Misuse of AI or Duplicate publication

will be handled in accordance with the journal’s Publication Ethics and Retraction Policy. The journal may consult independent experts or institutional authorities when necessary.

4. Timelines

The journal aims to:

  • Acknowledge receipt: within 7 days
  • Initial response: within 30 days

Complex cases may require additional time.

5. Confidentiality and Fairness

All parties involved in complaints or appeals are expected to:

  • Maintain confidentiality
  • Refrain from public accusations during investigation
  • Cooperate in good faith

The journal is committed to procedural fairness and impartial decision-making.

6. Editorial Independence

Complaints and appeals are evaluated independently of financial considerations, including APC payments or waiver requests.

All decisions are based solely on scholarly integrity and ethical standards.