Appeals and Complaints

Diyala Journal for Veterinary Sciences (DJVS)

At DJVS, we are committed to maintaining transparency, fairness, and integrity in our editorial and peer review processes. This Appeals and Complaints Policy outlines how authors, reviewers, and readers can raise concerns or request reconsideration of editorial decisions.

1. Appeals Process

Authors have the right to appeal editorial decisions if they believe that:

  • The decision was based on a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of their work.

  • The peer review process was unfair, biased, or did not comply with DJVS’s editorial policies.

How to Submit an Appeal:

  • Appeals must be submitted in writing via email to the Editor-in-Chief at:
     djvs@uodiyala.edu.iq

  • The appeal should clearly state the reasons for the appeal, provide any supporting evidence, and reference the manuscript number.

Appeal Handling:

  • The Editor-in-Chief will review the appeal in consultation with relevant editorial board members.

  • If necessary, a third independent reviewer may be invited to re-assess the manuscript.

  • The outcome of the appeal will be communicated to the author within 30 days of submission.

Note: The Editor-in-Chief’s decision on the appeal will be final.

2. Complaints Process

DJVS welcomes feedback and takes all complaints seriously. Complaints may relate to:

  • Editorial process delays or irregularities.

  • Suspected publication ethics violations.

  • Reviewer or editorial behavior.

  • Breaches of confidentiality or data protection.

How to Submit a Complaint:

  • Complaints should be submitted via email to the editorial office at:
     djvs@uodiyala.edu.iq

  • The complaint should include the complainant’s name, contact information, details of the issue, and any supporting documentation.

Complaint Handling:

  • All complaints will be acknowledged within 7 working days.

  • The complaint will be reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief and, if necessary, discussed with the editorial board or relevant stakeholders.

  • A formal written response will be provided to the complainant within 30 working days.

Anonymous complaints may be considered at the discretion of the editorial office, provided there is sufficient information to investigate the issue.

3. Ethical Oversight

If a complaint involves a serious ethical concern (e.g., plagiarism, data fabrication, conflict of interest), it will be handled in accordance with the guidelines provided by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).