Special issues and guest-edited contributions follow the same standards of scholarly quality, independent review, research ethics, and transparency as regular GGSR content. A coherent theme supports selection and coordination; it does not provide an exemption from the journal’s requirements.

Proposal approval and responsibilities

The journal assesses proposals for relevance, a developed scholarly rationale, the relationship between intended contributions, guest-editor expertise, competing interests, and a feasible schedule. The Editor-in-Chief or designated journal editor retains oversight and authority over final decisions.

Guest editors should understand the submission procedures, confidentiality duties, conflict safeguards, and criteria for assessment before handling material. Their role may include developing the theme, coordinating a call, advising on expertise, and recommending decisions within authorized procedures. Proposed contributors must not be promised acceptance.

Independent review safeguards

Research submissions undergo normal screening and double-anonymous review, normally with at least two independent reviewers. Reviewer selection must be based on expertise and impartiality. Personal or professional relationships relevant to an assignment must be disclosed, and invitations must not bypass evaluation.

A guest editor must not handle or decide their own manuscript. Work involving a guest editor or a relevant conflict is managed by an independent editor. Guest-editor submissions may not exceed 25% of the issue’s articles. Guest editors must not influence an independently handled submission through access to confidential reports or informal pressure.

Transparency and publication terms

The theme and guest-editor roles are identified in the issue’s public information. Calls should state the scope, submission instructions, deadlines, and applicable publication terms accurately. The standard APC and licence apply unless a formally authorized call explicitly confirms a financial exception. Authors should rely on written journal confirmation of any waiver or discount.

Each accepted article must be a complete contribution with its own evidence, references, and declarations. An introduction cannot substitute for missing methods or disclosures in another paper. Published articles remain subject to the journal’s correction and integrity procedures.

Oversight and concerns

The journal may seek additional advice or return handling to a regular editor where review independence, consistency, or ethical compliance requires it. Complaints concerning guest-edited content are considered under Complaints & Appeals. Guidance on preparing a proposal appears in Special Issues.