Complaint Handling Procedure

1. Purpose

Journal of Oeconomia Syariah et Civitas is committed to upholding high ethical standards, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of the publication process. This procedure provides clear guidance on how complaints are received, assessed, investigated, and resolved in a fair and timely manner.

2. Scope of Complaints

Complaints may include, but are not limited to:

  • Editorial decisions or delays in the peer review process

  • Allegations of plagiarism, data fabrication, falsification, or misconduct

  • Conflicts of interest involving authors, reviewers, or editors

  • Ethical concerns related to Islamic economics or sharia compliance

  • Errors or concerns regarding published articles

  • Unprofessional conduct by editorial staff or reviewers

3. Submission of Complaints

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing through the journal’s official communication channel.

  • The complaint should include:

    • Complainant’s name and contact details

    • A clear and detailed description of the complaint

    • Supporting evidence or relevant documentation (if available)

  • Anonymous complaints may be considered if accompanied by credible evidence.

4. Initial Assessment

  • The journal acknowledges receipt of the complaint within a reasonable timeframe.

  • The Editor-in-Chief or a designated editor conducts an initial review to determine:

    • Whether the complaint falls within the journal’s scope

    • Whether sufficient information has been provided

5. Investigation Process

  • If the complaint is deemed valid, a formal investigation is initiated.

  • The investigation may involve:

    • Consultation with editorial board members

    • Requesting clarification or responses from relevant parties

    • Reviewing submission records, peer review reports, and published content

  • All investigations are conducted confidentially, objectively, and without bias.

6. Decision and Resolution

  • After completing the investigation, the Editor-in-Chief makes a final decision.

  • Possible outcomes include:

    • No action if the complaint is unfounded

    • Requests for revision or clarification

    • Publication of a correction, retraction, or expression of concern

    • Reassignment or removal of editors or reviewers

    • Revision of editorial policies or procedures

7. Communication of Outcome

  • The complainant is informed of the outcome in writing where appropriate.

  • Due to confidentiality and privacy considerations, detailed findings may not be fully disclosed.

8. Appeals

  • Complainants may submit an appeal if they disagree with the decision.

  • Appeals must be supported by new evidence or a clear rationale.

  • Appeals are reviewed by an independent editor or advisory committee member.

9. Confidentiality

  • All complaints and investigations are treated as confidential.

  • Information is disclosed only to individuals directly involved in resolving the complaint.

10. Ethical Framework

This procedure adheres to:

  • Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines

  • International standards of scholarly publishing ethics

  • Ethical values and principles of Islamic scholarship

11. Policy Review

Journal of Oeconomia Syariah et Civitas reserves the right to review and update this procedure to ensure continuous improvement and compliance with evolving ethical standards.