Reviewer Conflict of Interest Policy

Reviewers engaged by DScholar Press International are required to disclose and avoid any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest that could influence the objectivity, fairness, or integrity of the peer review process. This policy applies to all peer-reviewed publications, including books, scholarly monographs, edited volumes, conference proceedings, working papers, and research reports.

A conflict of interest exists when a reviewer has any relationship, circumstance, or interest that could reasonably be perceived as affecting their ability to evaluate a manuscript impartially. Such conflicts include, but are not limited to, recent or ongoing collaboration with the author(s), institutional affiliation with the author(s), personal or professional relationships, financial interests, academic competition, or any other connection that could compromise objective judgment.

Reviewers must decline to review a manuscript if a conflict of interest exists. If a reviewer becomes aware of a conflict after accepting a review invitation, the reviewer must immediately inform the editorial office and withdraw from the review process. The editorial team will assign the manuscript to an alternative qualified reviewer.

Reviewers must not use manuscripts assigned for review for personal research advantage or share them with colleagues, students, or any third party without prior authorization from the Press. Unpublished information obtained through the review process must not be used in any form before the manuscript is officially published.

Editors are responsible for ensuring that conflicts of interest are properly managed during reviewer selection. Where possible conflicts are identified, editors must avoid assigning the manuscript to affected reviewers and must ensure that alternative reviewers with appropriate expertise are selected.

All declared conflicts of interest are treated seriously and recorded by the editorial office. The presence of a conflict does not automatically disqualify a reviewer, but it must be assessed by the editor to determine whether participation in the review process is appropriate.

Failure to disclose a conflict of interest or participation in a review where a conflict exists is considered a breach of publication ethics. Such cases may result in removal from the reviewer database, restriction from future review assignments, or other actions necessary to protect the integrity of the peer review process.

DScholar Press International expects reviewers to conduct evaluations with transparency, integrity, and independence. Proper management of conflicts of interest is essential to maintaining trust in the peer review system and ensuring that editorial decisions are based solely on scholarly merit.

Effective date: 25 June 2026
Last updated date: 25 June 2026