Research Misconduct & Whistleblower Policy

The Journal of Contemporary Social Issues (JCSI) is committed to upholding the highest standards of research integrity and ethical publishing. This Research Misconduct & Whistleblower Policy establishes the framework for identifying, reporting, investigating, and addressing research misconduct while protecting individuals who report concerns in good faith.

Definition of Research Misconduct

Research misconduct includes any act that intentionally or recklessly compromises the integrity of the research or publication process. It encompasses, but is not limited to:

  • Fabrication: Making up data, results, or methods that were not actually conducted.

  • Falsification: Manipulating research materials, equipment, processes, or data such that the research record is misrepresented.

  • Plagiarism: Using others’ ideas, text, or results without proper acknowledgment.

  • Duplicate or redundant publication: Publishing the same work in multiple venues without disclosure.

  • Improper authorship: Ghost authorship, gift authorship, or misattribution of contributions.

  • Other unethical practices: Including misrepresentation of conflicts of interest, unethical treatment of human or animal subjects, or deliberate obstruction of peer review.

Responsibilities of Authors, Reviewers, and Editors

All participants in the research and publication process are expected to uphold ethical conduct and report suspected misconduct. Authors must ensure the originality, accuracy, and transparency of their work. Reviewers and editors are responsible for identifying potential issues, raising concerns, and maintaining confidentiality during investigations.

Reporting Misconduct (Whistleblowing)

Individuals who suspect research misconduct or unethical behavior are encouraged to report their concerns to the editorial office immediately. Reports may be submitted confidentially and should include sufficient details to allow for proper investigation, such as the article title, authors, nature of the concern, and supporting evidence. The journal protects the identity of whistleblowers and ensures that reports made in good faith will not result in retaliation, discrimination, or any adverse consequences.

Investigation Process

Upon receiving a report of suspected misconduct, the editorial office conducts a preliminary assessment to determine if the allegation is credible. If substantiated, the journal may initiate a formal investigation, which can include consultation with independent experts, the authors’ institutions, or relevant ethics committees. All parties involved are given a fair opportunity to provide evidence or respond to the allegations.

Outcomes and Actions

If misconduct is confirmed, JCSI may take appropriate corrective measures, including but not limited to:

  • Requesting corrections or clarifications in the published article

  • Issuing expressions of concern

  • Retraction of the article in line with COPE guidelines

  • Reporting to the authors’ institution, funding agencies, or professional bodies

  • Banning authors from submitting future manuscripts to the journal in severe cases

Protection of Whistleblowers

JCSI ensures confidentiality and protection for individuals who report misconduct in good faith. Retaliation against whistleblowers, including threats, discrimination, or professional disadvantage, is strictly prohibited. Any violations of whistleblower protection will be treated as a serious ethical breach and may result in disciplinary action.

Ethical Compliance and Standards

The journal follows COPE (Committee on Publication Ethics) guidelines and internationally recognized standards for handling research misconduct. All investigations and outcomes are documented, transparent, and conducted with fairness to maintain trust in the journal and the academic community.