Publication Ethics

Publication Ethics Guidelines of MEDAAD Journal

Introduction
MEDAAD Journal, a distinguished publication focused on media and communication studies and proudly managed by Peninsula Publishing, is committed to maintaining the highest standards of publication ethics. Ethical practices in publishing are crucial to fostering scholarly discourse and advancing knowledge. Our ethics guidelines are designed to preserve the integrity of the academic record, foster trust among authors, reviewers, editors, and readers, and uphold the reputation of the journal.

Ethical Guidelines
The ethical guidelines of MEDAAD Journal are aligned with the standards established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). These guidelines address the specific ethical responsibilities and challenges of those involved in media and communication research.

Commitment of Authors, Reviewers, and Editors
By submitting to MEDAAD Journal, authors agree to abide by the journal’s ethical policies, ensuring that their work complies with these standards. Reviewers and editors also commit to upholding these principles, ensuring a fair, confidential, and transparent publication process.

Dedication to Ethical Standards
MEDAAD Journal's commitment to ethical standards is foundational to its mission of advancing knowledge and innovation in media and communication. By adhering to these guidelines, the journal strives to be a leader in ethical, rigorous, and impactful scholarly communication.

Principles

  1. Equitable Participation
    MEDAAD Journal promotes submissions from a diverse range of authors, including those from underrepresented groups, ensuring diverse perspectives in published research.

  2. Inclusive Peer Review
    The journal encourages participation from reviewers and editorial board members of varied backgrounds, fostering an inclusive review process.

  3. Bias Mitigation
    MEDAAD Journal implements practices to identify and reduce bias in manuscript submission, peer review, and decision-making, ensuring fairness for all participants.

  4. Accessibility
    MEDAAD Journal commits to making its content accessible to a broad audience, including readers with disabilities, enhancing the usability of published research.

  5. Education and Training
    The journal provides training and resources to editors, reviewers, and staff to support diversity and inclusivity, cultivating an environment that reflects these values.

Implementation

  • Regularly review and update policies to enhance diversity and inclusivity.
  • Monitor the diversity of authors, reviewers, and editorial board members.
  • Provide guidelines to help recognize and address implicit biases in the research process.
  • Collaborate with initiatives aimed at increasing representation in research and publishing.

Author Responsibilities

Originality and Plagiarism
Authors must ensure their work is original and properly cited. Plagiarism in any form is unacceptable and will be addressed stringently.

Data Access and Retention
Authors should provide access to their raw data if required and retain it for a reasonable period post-publication.

Multiple, Redundant, or Concurrent Publication
Submitting the same manuscript to more than one journal is unethical and not permitted.

Acknowledgment of Sources
Authors must properly acknowledge all data sources and influential publications.

Authorship of the Paper
Authorship should reflect significant contributions to the study. All contributors should be listed as co-authors.

Disclosure and Conflicts of Interest
Authors must disclose any potential conflicts of interest and financial support for the research.

Fundamental Errors in Published Works
If errors are found post-publication, authors should promptly notify the journal to correct or retract the work.

Use of AI Technologies
The use of AI in research must be disclosed, ensuring ethical use and maintaining the integrity of contributions.

Reviewer Responsibilities

Contribution to Editorial Decisions
Reviewers assist in editorial decisions and provide constructive feedback to authors.

Promptness and Confidentiality
Reviewers should notify editors if unable to review promptly. Manuscripts are confidential and should not be shared.

Objectivity and Acknowledgment of Sources
Reviews should be objective, and relevant sources not cited by authors should be highlighted.

Disclosure and Conflict of Interest
Reviewers must not use unpublished material for personal advantage and should disclose conflicts of interest.

Editorial Responsibilities

Fair Play and Independence
Editors evaluate manuscripts based solely on intellectual content without bias.

Confidentiality
Editors must keep submitted manuscripts confidential and disclose information only when necessary.

Decision-Making and Peer Review
Editors are responsible for publication decisions and ensuring a fair, unbiased peer review process.

Guidance for Authors and Reviewers
Editors should provide clear guidelines to authors and reviewers, ensuring ethical behavior.

Monitoring Ethical Standards
Editors regularly review ethical standards and address allegations of unethical conduct.

Engagement with the Academic Community
Editors seek feedback to improve processes and encourage responsible conduct among authors and reviewers.

Responsibility for Retractions, Corrections, and Expressions of Concern
Editors must take action when ethical concerns arise, including corrections or retractions when necessary.

Sanctions for Ethical Violations

Ethical violations undermine the academic publication process. Sanctions may include:

  • Warnings for minor breaches.
  • Retraction of published work for serious ethical violations.
  • Suspension of submission privileges for authors found in violation.
  • Removal of editors or reviewers who consistently fail to uphold ethical standards.
  • Notification of affiliated institutions for severe violations.

Compliance with Legal and Privacy Principles

MEDAAD Journal is committed to complying with relevant legal standards and protecting the privacy and confidentiality of research participants. This includes adherence to data protection laws, ethical treatment of human and animal subjects, and the safeguarding of intellectual property.