Editorial Appeals and Complaints Policy

Editorial appeals

An author may appeal a rejection or another editorial decision when the author can identify a material procedural error, a factual misunderstanding, an overlooked part of the record, or a decision inconsistent with the journal’s published policy. Disagreement with reviewer judgment alone is not sufficient.

An appeal must be submitted within 30 calendar days to (tujnas@tu.edu.ye), identify the manuscript, state the specific grounds, and provide concise supporting evidence. The journal acknowledges receipt within 5 working days. The appeal is reviewed by an editor who was not responsible for the original decision and has no conflict. One appeal is ordinarily permitted. The appeal outcome is communicated with reasons and is final within the journal.

 

Complaints

A complaint may concern editorial conduct, unreasonable delay, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, discriminatory or disrespectful treatment, suspected manipulation, publication ethics, accessibility, fees, or failure to follow a published procedure. Complaints must be sent in writing to (tujnas@tu.edu.ye) with the relevant manuscript/article identifier and evidence.

The complaint is logged, acknowledged within 7 working days, assessed by a non-conflicted responsible officer, and handled confidentially. The complainant and affected persons must have a fair opportunity to provide relevant information. Retaliation against a good-faith complainant is prohibited.

 

Escalation

If the complaint concerns the Editor-in-Chief, it is referred to the Rector of Thamar University (support@tu.edu.ye), who consequently will appoint the Scientific Research Committee. This committee decides on the complaint based on the information provided in that complaint. If the complaint concerns the Editorial Director,  it is referred to the Editor-in-Chief (post.studies@tu.edu.ye). Matters involving research institutions, legal risk, or serious misconduct may be referred to the relevant institution or competent authority (The Legal Affairs Administration at Thamar University). Following COPE guidance does not imply formal COPE membership.

 

Records and outcomes

TUJNAS records the allegation, conflicts, evidence, communications, decision, and corrective action. Outcomes may include explanation, apology, process correction, reassignment, reconsideration, correction, expression of concern, retraction, or referral. Personal data are disclosed only when necessary and lawful.