Complaints and Appeals Policy

 

Taj Al-Ma'rifa Journal Higher Institute of Science and Technology, Tajoura

  1. Introduction

Taj Al-Ma'rifa Journal is committed to maintaining a high-quality, transparent, and fair publication process. We recognize that disagreements or complaints may arise during the peer review and publication process. This policy outlines how we handle authors' complaints and appeals against editorial decisions with professionalism and impartiality.

  1. Definitions
  • Appeal: A formal request by an author to reconsider a decision to reject a research paper, based on strong scientific arguments or to clarify a misunderstanding by the reviewers.
  • Complaint: An objection regarding the journal's processes, such as unjustified delays, misconduct by editors or reviewers, or procedural failures unrelated to the scientific decision itself.
  1. Policy on Appeals Against Editorial Decisions

Authors have the right to appeal a rejection decision if they believe it was based on a clear scientific error or bias.

Conditions for Submission:

  1. Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Editor-in-Chief via the journal’s official email.
  2. The appeal must include a detailed point-by-point rebuttal to the reviewers' comments, providing scientific evidence supporting the validity of the research paper.
  3. Appeals based solely on disagreement with the decision without providing scientific justification will not be considered.

Handling Process:

  • The Editor-in-Chief (or a designated Editorial Board member who was not involved in the original decision) will review the appeal.
  • The research paper may be sent to a new reviewer for an impartial opinion.
  • Decisions made after an appeal are final.
  1. Policy on Procedural and Ethical Complaints

We welcome complaints that help us improve our processes, whether related to review duration, rude behavior, or conflicts of interest.

Submission Process:

  1. Complaints must be sent via email with the subject line "Formal Complaint."
  2. Complaints should be specific and accompanied by evidence (e.g., copies of correspondence).
  3. All complaints are treated with strict confidentiality.
  4. Response Timeline
  • Acknowledgment: Receipt of the complaint or appeal will be acknowledged within 3 working days.
  • Investigation and response: The journal seeks a final response within a period not exceeding two weeks, depending on the complexity of the case.6. Escalation

If the complaint is specifically against the Editor-in-Chief, it should be directed to the administration of the Higher Institute of Science and Technology, Tajoura or the Journal’s Senior Advisory Board to ensure an impartial investigation.