Duties of Reviewers

Contribution to Editorial Decisions

Peer review plays an important role in the editorial process. Reviewers assist editors in evaluating the scholarly quality, relevance, and originality of submitted manuscripts. Through constructive comments and recommendations, reviewers may also help authors improve the clarity and quality of their work.

Timeliness

Reviewers who are invited to evaluate a manuscript should respond promptly. If a reviewer feels that the manuscript falls outside their area of expertise, or if they are unable to complete the review within the requested timeframe, they should inform the editor as soon as possible so that alternative reviewers can be invited.

Confidentiality

Manuscripts received for review must be treated as confidential documents. Reviewers should not share, distribute, or discuss the manuscript with others unless authorization has been granted by the editor.

Objectivity and Professional Conduct

Reviews should be conducted in an objective, fair, and professional manner. Comments should focus on the scholarly content of the manuscript and should be supported by clear arguments or evidence. Personal criticism of the author is not appropriate.

Acknowledgment of Sources

Reviewers should identify relevant published works that have not been cited by the authors. If reviewers recognize that certain ideas, data, or arguments have been previously reported, they should suggest appropriate references. Reviewers should also notify the editor of any substantial similarity or overlap between the manuscript and other published work of which they are aware.

Conflicts of Interest

Information and ideas obtained through the peer-review process must remain confidential and must not be used for personal advantage. Reviewers should decline to review manuscripts if they have conflicts of interest arising from competitive, collaborative, or other relationships with the authors, institutions, or organizations associated with the manuscript.