Conflict of Interest Policy
This policy aims to ensure transparency and scientific integrity throughout all stages of submission, review, and publication of research papers, and to prevent any undue influence on the objectivity of decisions. It aligns with international best practices and the recommendations of the American Educational Research Association.
A conflict of interest refers to any situation in which personal, financial, or professional interests may influence—or appear to influence—the impartiality of authors, reviewers, or organizers, or affect publication decisions.
Scope of Application
This policy applies to:
- Authors
- Reviewers
- Members of the Scientific Committee
- Conference management and organizers
Authors’ Responsibilities
- Disclose any potential conflicts of interest (financial, institutional, or personal)
- Declare sources of funding or research support
- Clarify any relationships that may influence the research results or their interpretation
- Submit a formal declaration when submitting the paper
Reviewers’ Responsibilities
- Disclose any relationship with the authors or the research topic
- Refrain from reviewing any paper where a conflict of interest exists
- Maintain confidentiality and not use information for personal purposes
- Ensure objectivity and impartiality in evaluation
Responsibilities of the Scientific Committee
- Ensure papers are assigned to independent reviewers
- Review conflict-of-interest cases and take appropriate action
- Maintain the integrity of the review process
- Document relevant disclosures
Procedures for Handling Conflicts of Interest
- Exclude the concerned reviewer or member from the evaluation process
- Assign an independent alternative reviewer
- Request additional review if necessary
- Document the decision to ensure transparency
Sanctions for Non-Disclosure
Rejection or withdrawal of the paper
Prohibition from participating in the current or future conference editions
Notification of the author’s academic institution (if necessary)
Publication of a formal correction or clarification