Ethical Guidelines for New Editors

Introduction to Ethical Guidelines for New Editors

The Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) provides the backbone for ethical and practical implementation of publication guidelines which enlighten and offer support to the members. This non-statutory advisory membership body also lends a professional voice to contemporary discourse.

COPE is committed to educate and support editors, publishers and the relevant team with the aim to transform and integrate the ethical practices to become a part of the publishing culture. Our approach is consistent with COPE efforts to promote ethical practices in publishing through education, training, and following best international practices.

Bentham OPEN recommends all new editors to carefully follow the guide to ethical editing for new editors and sharing information among EiCs by COPE. This is a brief document which is readily accessible to assist new editors on ethical practices. It contains general guidelines on the quality checks and audits for new editors while joining any journal and to establish and maintain business relationship with other editors/editorial board members. The guide also informs new editors about their role and organized approach towards journal management.

COPE also provides comprehensive guidelines on publication ethics through its popular resources, i.e., core practices, flowcharts, eLearning courses and cases (available at COPE’s website). Bentham OPEN expects its editorial staff and editors to strictly adhere to and follow the guidelines in order to comply with the Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing.