Review ethics

Peer review of scientific articles by other researchers plays a huge role in ensuring the objectivity of research and reliable information about it. The ethical principles of COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) for reviewers form the basic principles and standards that all reviewers must adhere to during the peer review process.

Reviewers should: 

• Agree to review only those manuscripts for which they have sufficient knowledge and which they can review in a timely manner.
• Respect the confidentiality of the review and do not disclose any details of the manuscript or review during or after the review to anyone other than those authorized by the journal.
• Do not use information obtained during review for the own benefit or benefit of other persons or entities, or to harm others or discredit others.
• Declare all possible conflicts of interest and seek advice in the journal if they are not sure whether the current situation constitutes a conflict of interest or not.
• Do not allow the content of their review to be influenced by the origin of the manuscript, nationality, religious affiliation, political or other views of its authors, or commercial considerations.
• Write  a review objectively and constructively, refraining from hostile or inflammatory statements, as well as from slanderous or humiliating comments.
• Provide journals with accurate and truthful information about their personal and professional knowledge and experience.
• Be aware that attempting to impersonate another person during peer review is a serious violation of appropriate behavior.