Editorial Process
Every research article and policy analysis published in JLPIS is assessed through double-anonymised peer review: reviewers do not know the identity of authors, and authors do not know the identity of reviewers.
Stages of review
- Desk review (up to 2 weeks). The editors check scope, originality, quality and compliance with the guidelines. Papers may be declined at this stage.
- Similarity check. Every manuscript is screened for plagiarism and duplicate publication.
- External review (4–6 weeks). At least two independent experts review the manuscript, with at least one from outside the author’s discipline where relevant.
- Decision. Accept, minor revisions, major revisions or reject. Reviewer comments are shared with authors.
- Revision. Revised manuscripts may go back to the original reviewers.
- Final decision is made by the Editor-in-Chief on the basis of the reviews.
Reviewer selection
Reviewers are chosen for their expertise and must declare any conflicts of interest. Reviewers may not be from the same institution as the author. Manuscripts by members of the editorial team are handled by an independent editor and reviewed under the same standards, with the author excluded from every stage of the process.
Timelines
We aim to give authors a first decision within 6–8 weeks of submission. Notes, comments and book reviews may be reviewed by the editorial board instead of external reviewers.
Appeals
Authors may appeal a decision by writing to editor@jlpis.org with a reasoned explanation. Appeals are considered by an editor not involved in the original decision.