Peer Review Policy

Duties of Reviewers
The peer review process is a vital component of editorial decision-making at the International Journal of Multidisciplinary Evolutionary Research (IJMER). Reviewers play a crucial role in ensuring the quality, rigor, and credibility of scholarly communication. By providing constructive, informed feedback, reviewers assist editors in evaluating the merit of submitted manuscripts and help authors refine and strengthen their work. IJMER encourages scholars across disciplines to actively contribute to the peer review process as part of their professional and academic responsibility.

Timeliness
Reviewers are expected to adhere to the timelines provided for manuscript evaluation. If a reviewer feels unqualified to assess a particular manuscript—due to lack of expertise in the specific topic area—or anticipates any delay that could affect the review timeline, they should promptly inform the editorial office and decline the invitation. This allows the editorial team to identify alternate reviewers promptly and ensures the efficient processing of submissions across diverse research domains.

Confidentiality
All manuscripts assigned for review must be treated as confidential documents. Reviewers must not share, discuss, or disclose the content of the manuscript with any unauthorized individuals unless explicitly authorized by the Editor-in-Chief under exceptional circumstances. This confidentiality is critical to maintain the integrity and impartiality of the peer review process across the multidisciplinary research community.

Objectivity and Constructive Feedback
Reviewers are expected to provide objective, evidence-based evaluations focused on the manuscript's scholarly content. Feedback should be clear, constructive, and respectful, addressing key elements such as originality, methodology, analytical rigor, relevance, and contribution to the field. Personal bias or inappropriate comments targeting the authors will not be tolerated and are inconsistent with IJMER’s commitment to ethical scholarly communication.

Acknowledgment of Sources
Reviewers are encouraged to point out relevant literature that the authors may have overlooked, especially foundational or recent studies that enhance the manuscript’s context. Reviewers should also inform the editors of any significant similarities or overlaps between the manuscript under review and other known works—published or unpublished. Proper attribution and citation are essential to maintain academic transparency and integrity.

Disclosure and Conflicts of Interest
Reviewers must disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest that could influence their review. These may include personal, professional, or financial relationships with the authors or affiliated institutions. If such a conflict exists, the reviewer should promptly notify the editorial office and decline the assignment. Transparency in this regard helps ensure an unbiased and ethical review process.

Additionally, reviewers must not use or disclose unpublished material or data obtained through the review process for their own research or any other purpose without the authors’ explicit permission. Any privileged information or ideas obtained during the peer review process must remain confidential and must not be used for personal gain. These principles apply equally to those who decline the review invitation after initially viewing the manuscript.

By adhering to these policies, the International Journal of Multidisciplinary Evolutionary Research promotes a fair, rigorous, and ethical peer review process, reinforcing its dedication to academic excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration.