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Jurnal ICMES: The Journal of Middle East Studies is committed to maintaining an accurate and trustworthy scholarly record. When errors or concerns arise after publication, the journal assesses their nature and significance and takes appropriate action, drawing on relevant COPE guidance.

Authors and readers may report concerns to icmes.indonesia@gmail.com identifying the article and providing an explanation and supporting evidence.

Corrections

A correction is issued when an error affects the accuracy or understanding of an article but does not invalidate its central findings or conclusions. Examples may include errors in author details, references, tables, factual statements, or funding and conflict-of-interest disclosures.

Corrections may address errors introduced by either the authors or the journal. A correction notice will describe the change and link to the original article. Where the article itself is updated, the amendment will be clearly identified rather than made silently.

Expressions of Concern

An expression of concern may be issued when there are serious questions about an article’s reliability or integrity but the available evidence does not yet support a final decision. This may occur while an investigation is ongoing or when a timely or conclusive investigation is not possible.

The notice will explain the concern and link to the article. Once sufficient information becomes available, the journal will publish an update stating whether the matter has been resolved or requires further action.

Retractions

An article may be retracted when there is clear evidence that its findings or conclusions cannot be relied upon, whether because of serious error or misconduct. Other grounds may include substantial plagiarism, unjustified redundant publication, unethical research, or a compromised peer-review process that undermines confidence in the article.

Retraction is intended to correct the scholarly record. It does not necessarily imply deliberate misconduct.

Decision-Making Process

The editor will examine the evidence, seek clarification from the authors, and, where necessary, consult independent experts or the relevant institution. Authors will be given an opportunity to respond. An editor with a conflict of interest will not participate in the decision.

The journal may issue a correction, expression of concern, or retraction without the authors’ agreement when the evidence warrants action. The notice will indicate any relevant disagreement.

Notices and Article Availability

Correction and retraction notices will be publicly accessible, clearly labelled, and linked to the original article. Retraction notices will identify the article, explain the reasons for retraction, and state who is retracting it.

Retracted articles will ordinarily remain available to preserve the scholarly record, with their retracted status clearly marked on the article webpage and PDF. Removal of article content will be considered only in exceptional circumstances, such as a legal requirement or a serious risk to an individual’s safety. Where possible, the bibliographic record and an explanatory notice will remain accessible.

Withdrawal Before Publication

Withdrawal applies to manuscripts that have not yet been published and is distinct from retraction. Requests must be submitted in writing to the editorial office, with an explanation and confirmation that all authors agree. Withdrawal is subject to the specific terms set out in the separately signed Author Statement. The journal will confirm the manuscript’s withdrawal in writing.

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