The International Journal of Peace and Development employs a rigorous double-blind peer review process to ensure the quality, validity, and relevance of published research. Our review process typically takes 8-12 weeks from submission to first decision, though complex papers may require additional time.

Step 1: Initial Screening

All submitted manuscripts undergo an initial screening by the editorial team to ensure:

• The submission falls within the journal's scope and aims
• The manuscript meets basic scholarly standards and formatting requirements
• The work is original and has not been published elsewhere
• The research adheres to ethical guidelines

Manuscripts that do not meet these criteria may be rejected without further review. Authors of rejected manuscripts receive feedback explaining the reasons for rejection.

Step 2: Double-Blind Peer Review

Manuscripts that pass initial screening are assigned to an Associate Editor with expertise in the relevant field. The Associate Editor selects at least two expert reviewers to evaluate the manuscript. Both the identities of the authors and reviewers are kept confidential throughout the review process.

Reviewers are asked to evaluate the manuscript based on the following criteria:

• Originality and contribution to the field
• Methodological rigor and appropriateness
• Quality of analysis and interpretation
• Clarity of presentation and discussion
• Relevance to theory, practice, or policy
• Ethical considerations
• Connection to sustainable development and peace studies

Step 3: Editorial Decision

Based on reviewer recommendations, the Associate Editor makes one of the following decisions:

• Accept: The manuscript is accepted for publication without changes (rare).
• Minor Revisions: The manuscript requires minor changes before publication.
• Major Revisions: Substantial changes are required, after which the manuscript will undergo a second round of peer review.
• Reject: The manuscript is not suitable for publication in IJPD.

Authors receive detailed feedback from reviewers along with the editorial decision.

Step 4: Revision and Resubmission

Authors of manuscripts requiring revisions are given a specified timeframe to address reviewer comments:

• Minor revisions: 4 weeks
• Major revisions: 8 weeks

Authors must submit a detailed response to reviewer comments along with their revised manuscript, explaining how each point was addressed or why it was not addressed.

Step 5: Final Decision

Manuscripts with minor revisions are typically reviewed by the Associate Editor only, while manuscripts with major revisions undergo a second round of peer review. After this review, a final decision is made.

Step 6: Production and Publication

Accepted manuscripts undergo copyediting, layout, and proofreading. Authors have the opportunity to review proofs before final publication. Once approved, the article is published in the next available issue and made available online.

Special Issues and Invited Papers

Proposals for special issues undergo evaluation by the Editorial Board. If approved, guest editors coordinate the review process in collaboration with IJPD editors. Invited papers still undergo peer review to maintain the journal's quality standards.

Appeals Process

Authors who believe their manuscript was incorrectly rejected may appeal the decision by contacting the Editor-in-Chief with a detailed explanation of why the decision should be reconsidered. Appeals are considered on a case-by-case basis.