Policy on Handling Complaints

The Dyke 

The Dyke is committed to maintaining a transparent, fair, and respectful publishing environment. We recognise the importance of handling complaints diligently and in accordance with established ethical standards, including the guidelines provided by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

 

This policy outlines how complaints related to the editorial process, publication ethics, author or reviewer conduct, or journal policies are managed.

 

Scope of Complaints

Complaints may relate to, but are not limited to:

 

  • Editorial decisions (e.g., delays, perceived bias, or mismanagement)
  • Alleged research or publication misconduct (e.g., plagiarism, data manipulation, unethical research)
  • Reviewer behaviour or conflicts of interest
  • Authorship disputes
  • Access to or availability of published content
  • Breaches of confidentiality or anonymity
  • General concerns about adherence to the journal’s policies and ethics

 

How to Submit a Complaint

Complaints should be submitted in writing to the editorial office via email: editorinchief@thedyke.msu.ac.zw 

 

Please include:

  • A clear description of the issue
  • The title, author(s), and submission ID (if applicable)
  • Any supporting evidence or documentation
  • Your full name and contact information

Anonymous complaints may be considered if there is sufficient evidence to support the claim.

 

Complaint Handling Process

Upon receiving a complaint:

    1. Acknowledgement: The journal will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within five working days.
    2. Initial Assessment: The Editor-in-Chief or designated editorial team member will conduct an initial review to determine the nature and severity of the issue.
    3. Investigation:
      • If the complaint concerns editorial conduct or a peer review issue, it will be investigated by the editorial board.
      • If it involves publication ethics or misconduct, it may be referred to an independent ethics committee or the author’s institution.
    4. Resolution and Response:
      • A response will be issued within four weeks, outlining the findings and actions taken.
      • Complex cases may require additional time; in such instances, interim updates will be provided.
  • Appeal:
    • If the complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome, they may request a formal appeal to the editorial board.
    • Appeals will be reviewed by at least two members not involved in the original decision.

 Confidentiality and Fairness

  • All complaints are handled confidentially and impartially.
  • No complainant will be discriminated against or penalised for raising a legitimate concern in good faith.

 

Corrective Actions

Depending on the outcome, corrective actions may include:

  • Issuing a correction, retraction, or editorial note
  • Replacing a reviewer
  • Revising editorial procedures
  • Issuing a formal apology
  • Reporting findings to relevant institutions or oversight bodies

 

The Dyke values the trust of its authors, reviewers, and readers and strives to resolve complaints in a transparent, ethical, and timely manner.