GRHAS uses retraction to identify a publication whose reliability or legitimacy is substantially compromised. The purpose is to keep readers informed about the status of the scholarly record, whether the problem results from error or misconduct.

Grounds for assessment

Retraction may be appropriate when central findings or arguments are unreliable, evidence is fabricated or falsified, substantial plagiarism or redundant publication is established, or serious ethical or rights problems affect the work. The editor considers the extent of the problem and its effect on the article.

An authorship disagreement is examined on its own evidence. Where the work remains reliable, correction of attribution may be more appropriate than retraction. An error that can be remedied without undermining the contribution is considered under Corrections Policy.

Investigation

Provide the article citation, precise concerns and supporting evidence to the editorial office. The editor examines the material and asks the authors to respond. Original records, independent specialist advice or an institutional investigation may be needed.

The journal can act on substantiated evidence when an author does not respond. A significant unresolved concern may lead to an expression of concern while the matter is investigated. The notice explains the issue and links to the article.

Publication of a retraction

A retraction notice identifies the article, states the reason and the party issuing the notice, and links to the affected record. The article is clearly marked as retracted and ordinarily remains accessible. The journal maintains links between the notice and the original publication.

Removal of content is exceptional and is considered when continued availability presents a specific legal, privacy or safety problem. The journal preserves an explanatory record of the action as appropriate.

Responses and appeals

The editor communicates the publication action and its reasons to the relevant parties. Authors can raise a procedural or evidential challenge through Complaints & Appeals Policy.

Contact [email protected] with the article DOI or URL and documents relevant to the case.