Double blind peer review

At RBGIDS, the peer review process is central to the journal’s commitment to publishing rigorous, high-quality research. The journal follows a double-blind review model, ensuring that both authors and reviewers remain anonymous throughout the editorial process. This approach is designed to foster impartial, merit-based evaluation, free from personal bias or institutional influence.

All manuscripts first undergo a preliminary editorial review conducted by the editor-in-chief or a section editor. At this stage, the submission is assessed for its relevance to the journal’s scope, adherence to submission guidelines, structural completeness, and apparent originality. Submissions that fail to meet these minimum standards may be declined without external review, allowing the journal to maintain its editorial integrity and streamline the evaluation process for qualified manuscripts.

Manuscripts that pass the initial screening are assigned to at least two independent reviewers with recognized expertise in the relevant subject area. Reviewer selection is based on scholarly credentials, recent academic contributions, and institutional diversity. RBGIDS is committed to inclusive reviewing practices and actively seeks to involve experts from diverse academic, regional and institutional backgrounds to enrich the quality and fairness of its peer review.

Reviewers are provided with an anonymized version of the manuscript along with clear evaluation criteria covering originality, clarity of argument, methodological soundness, analytical depth, quality of writing, relevance of references, and overall contribution to the field. Based on their assessment, reviewers issue a recommendation, ranging from acceptance to major revision or rejection, accompanied by constructive, detailed feedback. The journal emphasizes respectful, professional, and evidence-based commentary, encouraging reviewers to guide authors in strengthening their work.

In cases where reviewer opinions differ significantly, the editorial team may consult a third reviewer to ensure a balanced and informed decision. The peer review process may involve multiple rounds, particularly when substantial revisions are required. Throughout this process, editorial staff act as facilitators, ensuring clear communication, protecting anonymity, and upholding the ethical standards of scholarly publishing.

Final editorial decisions are made by the editor-in-chief, who considers the reviewers’ input alongside the journal’s mission and editorial policies. Authors are informed of the outcome and receive the full reviewer reports, whether the submission is accepted, revised, or declined.

RBGIDS recognizes that the peer review process relies on the voluntary contribution of qualified reviewers. The journal values their expertise and commitment, and formally acknowledges their work through review certificates and ongoing invitations to collaborate, based on technical merit and ethical conduct. Their role is essential to the development of a credible, inclusive, and high-impact scientific publication.