Allegations of Misconduct

Handling of Allegations of Misconduct and Ethics Complaints

VARIA HUKUM: Jurnal Forum Studi Hukum dan Kemasyarakatan takes credible allegations of research, publication, editorial, or peer review misconduct seriously, whether raised before or after publication and whether submitted by an author, reviewer, reader, editor, institution, or whistleblower. Concerns should be sent to jurnalvariahukum@uinsgd.ac.id and should identify the relevant manuscript or article, the specific concern, and supporting evidence where available. Anonymous concerns may be considered, although anonymity can limit the journal's ability to request clarification or assess credibility.

Initial Assessment

The journal will conduct a preliminary assessment to determine whether the allegation falls within the journal's remit, is specific enough to assess, raises a non-trivial publication-ethics or reliability issue, and warrants further inquiry. A prior unsupported complaint does not automatically disqualify a complainant from raising a new substantiated concern.

Inquiry and Escalation

Where further inquiry is warranted, the journal may request an explanation or documentation from the author, reviewer, or editor concerned. Where evidence indicates a broader research-conduct issue, the journal may contact the relevant institution or employer. Where multiple journals are affected, editors may share the minimum factual information necessary, subject to confidentiality, legal considerations, and relevant COPE guidance.

Outcome

Possible editorial outcomes include no further action, request for clarification, revision before publication, rejection, replacement peer review, correction, editorial note, expression of concern, retraction, or other action appropriate to the reliability and integrity of the record. Journal action is intended to protect the scholarly record rather than impose employment or professional punishment.