4. Allegations of Research Misconduct

← Back to Journal Policies

Jurnal ICMES: The Journal of Middle East Studies takes all allegations of research and publication misconduct seriously, whether they concern a manuscript under consideration or an article already published. Allegations are assessed fairly, impartially, and with due regard for confidentiality, drawing on relevant guidance from the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). Research and publication misconduct may include fabrication or falsification of data, sources, or findings; plagiarism; undisclosed duplicate or redundant publication; manipulation of authorship or peer review; and serious breaches of research ethics. These examples are not exhaustive.

Reporting a concern

Authors, reviewers, readers, and other parties may report suspected misconduct to icmes.indonesia@gmail.com. Reports should identify the manuscript or article concerned, describe the suspected misconduct, and provide supporting evidence where available. Reports submitted anonymously will be considered when they contain sufficiently specific and verifiable information.

The journal treats reports confidentially as far as practicable. Information may be shared with those involved in assessing or investigating the concern when necessary.

Assessment and investigation

  1. The editor will assess whether the report provides sufficient grounds for further examination. The individuals concerned will be informed of the relevant allegations and given an opportunity to explain or respond.
  2. Where necessary, the journal may seek independent expert advice or refer the matter to the relevant institution for investigation. The editorial process may be suspended while the concern is being examined. Any editor with a conflict of interest will take no part in handling the case.
  3. An allegation does not, by itself, establish misconduct. Decisions are based on the available evidence, the responses received, and any relevant institutional findings.

Outcomes

  1. Depending on the findings and their implications, the journal may request clarification or revision, reject a manuscript, publish a correction or an expression of concern, or retract an article. If the concern is not substantiated, the case will be closed.
  2. Relevant parties will be informed of the outcome as appropriate, subject to confidentiality requirements. Authors who wish to challenge a decision may submit a reasoned appeal with supporting evidence to the editorial office. Appeals will be assessed by an editor or other qualified party who was not involved in the original decision.

← Back to Journal Policies