Editors of the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology (IJCEO) are entrusted with sensitive information throughout the editorial and peer review process. This policy outlines their ethical obligations in maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and impartiality while handling manuscripts.

Confidentiality Principles

• All submitted manuscripts are considered confidential documents.
• Editors must not share manuscripts with individuals beyond those directly involved in the editorial process.
• Information contained in submissions may not be used for personal gain or shared without explicit consent.
• Reviewer identities must be protected unless explicit consent is given for disclosure.

Handling Author Information

Editors must safeguard author details, including names, affiliations, and contact information. Author data must only be used for legitimate editorial purposes and never shared with third parties without consent.

Ethical Responsibilities

• Make editorial decisions free of bias and personal interest.
• Ensure fair and transparent review processes.
• Recuse themselves from decisions where conflicts of interest exist.
• Follow COPE and ICMJE recommendations for editorial ethics.

Data Protection and Privacy

In compliance with GDPR and international data privacy regulations, editors must handle all personal data securely and responsibly. Manuscript files, review reports, and author information must be stored on secure platforms and accessed only by authorized personnel.

Conflict of Interest

• Editors must declare conflicts related to financial interests, institutional ties, or personal relationships.
• Manuscripts affected by conflicts must be reassigned to an independent editor.

Misconduct Handling

Editors must act on suspected plagiarism, data manipulation, or ethical breaches. Investigations should follow COPE flowcharts and, where necessary, involve institutional notification.

Transparency in Editorial Actions

Editors should provide clear explanations for editorial decisions and maintain records of communications with authors and reviewers to ensure accountability.

Professional Conduct

• Maintain respectful communication with authors and reviewers.
• Encourage constructive feedback and avoid unprofessional language.
• Uphold the reputation of IJCEO as a trusted, ethical journal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can editors use unpublished data from manuscripts?

No. Editors must not use or disclose unpublished information for personal or professional advantage.

What happens if confidentiality is breached?

Breaches are investigated seriously and may result in removal from the editorial board or institutional reporting.

How should editors handle whistleblower complaints?

All complaints must be treated confidentially, with protection for whistleblowers and impartial investigation of concerns.