The Global Journal of Dental Specialty (GJDS) is committed to maintaining transparency, fairness, and accountability throughout its editorial and publishing processes. Authors, reviewers, readers, and other stakeholders have the right to submit complaints or appeals regarding editorial decisions, publication ethics, peer review, or journal management. All complaints and appeals are handled impartially, confidentially, and in accordance with internationally recognized publishing ethics and best practices.

Complaints

Complaints may relate to, but are not limited to:

• Editorial or administrative delays.

• Concerns regarding the peer review process.

• Alleged ethical misconduct by authors, reviewers, or editors.

• Publication errors or inaccuracies.

• Copyright, plagiarism, or authorship disputes.

• Conflicts of interest or editorial bias.

All complaints should be submitted in writing with sufficient supporting evidence. The editorial office acknowledges receipt of the complaint and conducts an initial assessment. Where necessary, additional information may be requested from the concerned parties. Every effort is made to resolve complaints fairly, objectively, and within a reasonable timeframe.

Appeals Against Editorial Decisions

Authors who believe that their manuscript has been rejected unfairly may submit a formal appeal. Appeals should include:

• A detailed explanation of the reasons for the appeal.

• A point-by-point response addressing the reviewers' or editor's comments.

• Any additional evidence or clarification supporting the appeal.

The appeal will be reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief or an independent editorial board member who was not involved in the original decision. If required, the manuscript may be sent for additional independent peer review. The decision reached after the appeal review is considered final.

Resolution Process

• All complaints and appeals are treated confidentially and without bias.

• Investigations are conducted according to the journal's ethical standards and international publishing guidelines.

• Appropriate corrective actions will be taken where misconduct or procedural errors are confirmed.

• The journal aims to resolve complaints and appeals as promptly as possible while ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation.

• Records of complaints and their resolutions are maintained by the editorial office for accountability and quality improvement.

The journal is committed to safeguarding the integrity of scholarly publishing by ensuring that every complaint and appeal receives careful, objective, and timely consideration.