Research on public oversight must remain capable of examining the institutions, funders and interests that shape access to evidence and the interpretation of findings.

Independent scholarly judgment

Authors should retain responsibility for research design, analysis, interpretation and the decision to submit. Disclose any sponsor, employer or studied institution’s role, including the provision of records, selection of cases, approval of questions or review of drafts. A contribution from an institution may support research, but it must not be presented as independent evidence without explaining its provenance.

Distinguish a source’s description of its own practice from independently supported findings. Explain access conditions, excluded evidence and constraints on publication that could affect interpretation. A restriction should not be concealed because it may weaken a claim.

Commissioned and institution-based studies

Commissioned studies and research by employees of oversight bodies may be considered when they make a scholarly contribution and disclose relevant relationships. Authors should explain safeguards against selective reporting and separate professional responsibilities from the research role.

Identify any contractual review, approval or publication restriction. If a sponsor can veto unfavourable findings or prevent disclosure of a material limitation, the editor must be informed. The journal may decline work when its evidentiary basis or independence cannot be assessed adequately.

Editorial independence

Publishers, sponsors, authors and guest editors must not purchase acceptance or direct reviewer conclusions. Editorial decisions rely on scholarly and ethical criteria. A conflicted editor must not control the affected submission. Financial requests are administered separately from review.

The journal welcomes competing theoretical and policy positions when supported by careful reasoning. Acceptance does not constitute endorsement of an institution, political programme or legal position.

Reporting pressure or interference

Inform the Editorial Office of attempts to suppress evidence, alter findings improperly or link publication decisions to payment or sponsorship. Describe the relevant circumstances without transmitting unnecessary sensitive records. See Competing Interests and Complaints & Appeals.

Updated 5 October 2026 · Questions: JPOII Editorial Office