Appeals and Complaints

Last Updated: April 2026

Submission and Initial Handling

We are committed to a fair and transparent editorial process. Authors, reviewers, or readers who believe an editorial decision was incorrect or wish to voice a concern regarding our publication practices may submit a formal appeal or complaint. All such communications should be directed to the Managing Editor or the customer support via email at halo@etflin.com.

To ensure a timely resolution, we guarantee an initial acknowledgment of the submission within five working days. Our primary goal is to provide a comprehensive review and final determination within 30 working days of the initial receipt.

Evaluation Criteria and Confidentiality

All appeals and complaints are evaluated based on rigorous criteria, including relevance, factual accuracy, the potential impact on the integrity of the publication, and any underlying ethical implications. Throughout the investigation, we prioritize the protection of all parties involved; the identity of the complainant and the details of the review process are kept strictly confidential to the fullest extent possible. This secure environment ensures that concerns can be raised without fear of bias or retaliation.

Independent Review and Reconsideration

In cases where a complaint is directed against an editor or a member of the editorial staff, we employ a separate, independent process to prevent any conflict of interest. This often involves the formation of an independent committee to ensure a zero-bias investigation. 

Furthermore, we maintain a policy of reconsideration: if substantive new information surfaces that was not available during the initial assessment, decisions may be reconsidered. This can result in the reopening of a review or the performance of a fresh, independent analysis of the manuscript or concern.

Transparency, Documentation, and Policy Review

Transparency is central to our grievance procedure. We maintain rigorous, secure records of all appeals, including the supporting rationales, final outcomes, and any subsequent actions taken. These records are stored in a confidential location to preserve the integrity of the editorial record. Complainants are provided with regular updates throughout the decision-making process to ensure they are fully informed of the status of their request. Finally, this policy is reviewed periodically to ensure it remains effective, equitable, and aligned with evolving industry standards and COPE guidelines.