Policy+ > Ethics Statement
In recognition of our ethical responsibilities, we take all possible measures against malpractice and in maintaining the academic integrity of Policy+. We commit to publish papers based only on quality, originality, and relevance in the broad field of public policy and governance.
Submissions will be evaluated for their intellectual content without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, religious belief, or political ideology of the author(s). Policy+ acknowledges the variety in guidelines to inform research practice, such as those underpinned by the principles expressed in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Conformance with standards of ethical behaviour is required for all parties involved: author(s), editor, editorial board, and reviewer(s).
Plagiarism in all forms is unacceptable. St Francis Xavier University guidelines surrounding plagiarism and academic integrity can be found here. If applicable, all co-author(s) must give approval of the final paper and its submission for publication.
Editor/Editorial Board: The editor and editorial board of Policy+ will evaluate submissions exclusively based on their academic merit and fit within the journal’s mission statement. They are responsible for deciding which submitted papers should be published. The editor and editorial board must maintain confidentiality and not disclose any information about a submitted paper to anyone other than the corresponding author(s) and reviewer(s). They will not use unpublished information in their own research without the express written consent of the author(s). The editor, in conjunction with the editorial board, should take reasonable responsive measures when ethical complaints have been presented concerning a submitted or published paper.
Reviewer(s): Policy+ uses a blind review process. The review process usually takes 4–10 weeks. All submissions received will be treated as confidential documents. Unpublished materials must not be used by reviewer(s) without the express written consent of the author(s). Reviewer(s) must declare a conflict of interest and not review a submission where they have a connection(s) with any of the author(s), company(s), or institution(s) connected to the submission. Reviewer(s) shall remain anonymous and not connected to individual submission review(s).
Unethical Behaviour: The editor and editorial board will take all reasonable steps to identify and prevent the publication of submissions they suspect of publishing misconduct. Author(s) is expected to be aware of, and comply with, best practices in publication ethics and research ethics. Best practice and guidelines can be located here. Suspected or reported cases of misconduct are considered individually by the editor and editorial board. Submission consideration will be placed on hold and reconsidered upon completion of allegation investigation.
If you have any concerns about the Policy+ Ethics Statement or potential misconduct, please email policyplus@stfx.ca