Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the International Journal of Peace, Governance and Social Change (IJPGSC)?
The International Journal of Peace, Governance and Social Change (IJPGSC) is a peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal that publishes high-quality research on peace studies, governance, public policy, conflict resolution, social change, international relations, development studies, political science, sociology, and related disciplines. The journal provides a platform for researchers, academics, policymakers, and practitioners to share original research and innovative ideas that contribute to addressing contemporary societal challenges.
2. What types of manuscripts does the journal accept?
The journal welcomes original research articles, review articles, case studies, policy analyses, short communications, book reviews, and theoretical papers that fall within the journal's aims and scope. All submissions should present original work and make a meaningful contribution to existing knowledge.
3. Is the journal peer reviewed?
Yes. Every manuscript submitted to the journal undergoes a rigorous double-blind peer review process. At least two independent reviewers evaluate each manuscript before an editorial decision is made.
4. Is the journal open access?
Yes. The International Journal of Peace, Governance and Social Change is an open-access journal. All published articles are freely available online immediately after publication, allowing readers worldwide to access, read, download, and cite research without subscription fees.
5. Is there a manuscript submission fee?
No. The journal does not charge a fee for manuscript submission. Authors may submit their manuscripts for editorial consideration without making any payment.
6. Is there an Article Processing Charge (APC)?
Yes. An Article Processing Charge (APC) of USD 100 is payable only after a manuscript has successfully completed peer review and has been formally accepted for publication. No payment is required before acceptance.
7. How do I submit a manuscript?
Authors should submit their manuscripts through the journal's Online Journal System (OJS). Before submission, authors should carefully read the Author Guidelines and ensure that their manuscript complies with the journal's formatting and ethical requirements.
8. How long does the review process take?
The journal aims to complete the peer review process within 4 to 8 weeks. However, the actual review period may vary depending on reviewer availability, the complexity of the manuscript, and the number of revision rounds required.
9. How long does publication take after acceptance?
Once the final revised manuscript has been accepted and the Article Processing Charge has been paid, the article normally proceeds to copyediting, typesetting, proofreading, and online publication within 2 to 4 weeks.
10. Can authors track the progress of their manuscripts?
Yes. Registered authors can log into the Online Journal System at any time to monitor the progress of their manuscripts throughout the editorial and peer review process.
11. Does the journal accept manuscripts from all countries?
Yes. The journal welcomes submissions from researchers, academics, policymakers, and practitioners from all countries. Manuscripts are evaluated solely on academic merit, regardless of the author's nationality or institutional affiliation.
12. What language does the journal publish in?
The journal publishes manuscripts in English. Authors whose first language is not English are encouraged to have their manuscripts professionally edited before submission to improve clarity and readability.
13. What referencing style does the journal use?
Authors should follow the referencing style specified in the journal's Author Guidelines. Manuscripts that do not comply with the required formatting and referencing style may be returned for correction before peer review.
14. Does the journal check for plagiarism?
Yes. All submitted manuscripts are screened using plagiarism detection software before entering the peer review process. Manuscripts containing plagiarism, duplicate publication, or other forms of research misconduct may be rejected immediately.
15. Can authors withdraw a manuscript?
Yes. Authors may withdraw a manuscript before it has been accepted for publication by notifying the Editorial Office in writing. Once production has commenced after acceptance, withdrawal requests may be subject to the journal's withdrawal policy.
16. Who owns the copyright of published articles?
Unless otherwise specified in the journal's copyright policy, authors retain the copyright to their published work while granting the journal the right to publish and distribute the article.
17. Does the journal assign Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs)?
Yes. Published articles are assigned Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) where available, ensuring permanent identification and easier citation of published research.
18. How can I become a reviewer?
Researchers with relevant academic qualifications and publication experience are welcome to apply as reviewers. Interested individuals may register through the journal's website and indicate their areas of expertise or contact the Editorial Office with their curriculum vitae.
19. How can I join the Editorial Board?
The journal periodically invites experienced scholars with strong publication records and recognised expertise to join its Editorial Board. Expressions of interest may be submitted to the Editor-in-Chief together with a current curriculum vitae and a summary of research experience.
20. How can I contact the Editorial Office?
Questions regarding manuscript submissions, peer review, publication policies, editorial procedures, or technical support may be directed to the Editorial Office using the official contact information provided on the journal's website. The editorial team is committed to responding to enquiries promptly and professionally.
