Accessibility Policy

The Journal of Contemporary Social Issues (JCSI) is committed to ensuring that all authors, reviewers, editors, and readers—regardless of physical, sensory, cognitive, or technological limitations—can access, use, and benefit from the journal’s scholarly content. Our Accessibility Policy reflects our dedication to inclusivity, equal opportunity, and compliance with international accessibility standards.

Commitment to Inclusive Access

JCSI aims to provide an online platform that can be accessed comfortably by individuals with a wide range of abilities. We strive to remove barriers that may prevent users from engaging with published research or participating in the submission and review processes. The journal’s website, submission system (OJS), published articles, and interactive features are continuously reviewed and updated to ensure they meet accessibility expectations.

Web Accessibility Standards

The journal seeks to align its website and digital content with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. This includes ensuring that all text, graphics, navigation menus, and interactive elements remain readable and operable through assistive technologies. Core accessibility features include properly structured HTML headings, clearly labeled form fields, appropriate color contrast, descriptive link text, alt text for images, and compatibility with common screen readers.

Accessible Formats of Published Content

All published articles are provided in digital formats that are designed to be accessible through most screen reader applications and compatible with text-to-speech tools. PDF files are generated with selectable text rather than scanned images to ensure readability. Authors are encouraged to follow accessible writing practices, including using clear headings, descriptive figure captions, and tables that can be interpreted by assistive devices. If any article or supplementary file presents accessibility challenges, readers may request an alternative accessible format, and the journal will make reasonable efforts to provide it promptly.

Accessible Submission and Review Process

The journal’s submission and peer review process through OJS is designed to be accessible to all scholars, including those using assistive technologies. Authors and reviewers who encounter barriers in navigating the system may contact the editorial office for alternative submission methods, accommodations, or technical support. The editorial team is trained to assist individuals facing accessibility-related challenges and to ensure equitable participation in all academic processes.

Support for Authors with Disabilities

JCSI provides additional support to authors who may need assistance preparing manuscripts in accessible formats. This may include guidance on structuring content, ensuring proper labeling of figures and tables, and converting materials into accessible document formats. Authors may inform the editorial office of any specific accommodations they require, and all requests will be handled confidentially and respectfully.

Accessibility of Editorial Communications

All communication from the journal—including editorial decisions, peer-review reports, and administrative messages—is written in clear, readable language and delivered in formats accessible across different devices and platforms. When necessary, the journal will provide messages in alternative formats upon request to support users with visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments.

Continuous Improvement and Feedback Mechanism

JCSI recognizes that accessibility is an ongoing process. The journal regularly reviews its digital systems, design elements, and editorial workflows to identify areas for improvement. Users are encouraged to report any accessibility issues they encounter. Feedback will be evaluated promptly, and corrective measures will be taken to ensure that the journal remains inclusive and barrier-free.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Access

The journal upholds a strong policy of non-discrimination. No submission, review, or publication decision will be influenced by an individual’s disability or ability to interact with the journal’s digital systems. We aim to foster an academic environment where every researcher, without exception, has equal access to knowledge production and dissemination.