GGSR considers reasoned complaints about editorial conduct, publication procedures, and the integrity of published material. Authors may appeal an editorial decision when they identify a substantive error, procedural problem, or relevant evidence that was overlooked. The appropriate response depends on the nature of the concern.

Preparing a complaint or appeal

Write to [email protected] and include:

• The manuscript identifier or article title and publication link.
• The decision, event, passage, or procedure being challenged.
• A clear account of the concern, with relevant dates and supporting documents.
• An explanation of how the issue affects the assessment, procedure, or published record.
• The remedy requested and any steps already taken to resolve the matter.

Distinguish facts from interpretation and send only information relevant to the enquiry. An appeal should address the reasons for the decision rather than rely on the importance of publication to the author. Disagreement with a judgement alone does not establish improper conduct.

Independent consideration

The concern is considered by an authorized editor without the relevant conflict. A complaint involving the handling editor is referred to another editor. The journal may request clarification, consult the submission record, obtain additional expert advice, or ask an institution to investigate matters beyond what the journal can establish.

Information is handled with appropriate confidentiality while allowing affected parties to respond. The journal may need to share relevant evidence with an institution or other responsible party to investigate an integrity issue. Complainants should not expect disclosure of confidential reviewer identities or unrelated personal information.

Possible outcomes

An appeal may uphold the decision, identify a procedural correction, or lead to further editorial or external assessment. It does not guarantee review or acceptance. A complaint about a published article may result in clarification, a correction, an expression of concern, or retraction where the evidence warrants it. An unresolved authorship or employment-related dispute may require action by the responsible institution.

During consideration

Respond accurately to requests for additional information and notify the journal if relevant circumstances change. If a manuscript remains active at GGSR, obtain confirmation of withdrawal before submitting it elsewhere. Financial matters should be raised under APCs; payment status does not determine an integrity or editorial decision.