Author Appeals Policy

At the International Journal of Advanced and Innovative Research (IJAIR), we are committed to a fair, objective, and transparent editorial and peer review process. While editorial decisions are made with careful consideration, we recognize that authors may occasionally have valid concerns warranting re-evaluation. This policy outlines the formal process for submitting appeals and ensures that such concerns are addressed with integrity and professionalism.

1. Grounds for Appeal

Authors may submit a formal appeal under the following circumstances:

  • Substantive Misinterpretation: The decision was based on a significant misunderstanding or misreading of the manuscript’s content, methodology, or findings.

  • Factual Errors: Material inaccuracies or omissions in reviewer feedback or editorial handling that may have influenced the decision.

  • Conflict of Interest or Bias: Evidence of bias, undeclared conflicts of interest, or unethical conduct during the review process.

⚠️ Appeals solely based on disagreement with reviewer opinions—without supporting evidence—will generally not be considered.

2. How to Submit an Appeal

Submission Timeline

  • Appeals must be submitted within 20 calendar days of receiving the editorial decision. Appeals submitted beyond this period may not be reviewed.

Formal Appeal Letter

  • Submit a written appeal to the Editor-in-Chief including:

    • A clear statement of intent to appeal

    • Detailed explanation of the reasons for appeal

    • Specific references to reviewer comments or editorial remarks in question

    • Any supporting evidence (e.g., clarification of misunderstood points, rebuttal of inaccurate critique)

Revised Manuscript (If Applicable)

  • If the appeal includes a revised manuscript addressing key concerns, all changes must be clearly tracked and justified in reference to reviewer and editor feedback.

3. Appeals Review Process

Initial Assessment

  • The Editor-in-Chief conducts a preliminary review of the appeal and may consult the handling editor and/or editorial board members for guidance.

Additional Review (if warranted)

  • If the appeal presents a compelling case, the Editor-in-Chief may:

    • Share the appeal and revised manuscript with the original reviewers for reconsideration

    • Assign new, independent reviewers to provide an impartial evaluation

  • The most appropriate approach will be selected based on the nature of the appeal.

Final Decision

  • After review, the Editor-in-Chief will issue a final decision, which may include:

    • Upholding the original decision

    • Inviting a revised submission for further consideration

    • Accepting the manuscript (with or without additional revisions)

  • Authors will receive a written explanation outlining the rationale behind the final decision.

4. Appeal Scope and Limitations

  • No Guarantee of Acceptance: An appeal does not ensure reversal of the original decision. Appeals are evaluated strictly on academic merit and compliance with journal standards.

  • One Appeal Per Manuscript: Only one appeal is permitted per submission. Repeated or unfounded appeals will not be entertained.

5. Ethical Oversight

  • If an appeal raises ethical concerns—such as reviewer misconduct, conflicts of interest, or procedural irregularities—the matter may be escalated to an independent ethics review, following COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) guidelines.

  • Remedial actions may include:

    • Reassigning the manuscript to a new editor or review panel

    • Initiating a formal investigation

6. Communication and Timelines

  • Acknowledgment of Receipt: Appeals will be acknowledged within 5 business days.

  • Review Timeline: Most appeals are processed within 4–8 weeks, depending on complexity and whether further peer review is required.