The Journal of International Commercial Law and Technology (JICLT) relies on the expertise of reviewers to maintain high academic standards and ensure the integrity, quality, and relevance of published research. This document outlines the responsibilities, ethical standards, and review process for all reviewers.

1. Role of Reviewers

Reviewers are essential to the double-blind peer review process, which ensures that all submissions are evaluated fairly and without bias. Their main responsibilities include:

• Assessing the originality, quality, and relevance of the manuscript.

• Providing constructive feedback to improve the work.

• Assisting the editorial board in making publication decisions.

2. Reviewer Responsibilities

a) Objectivity and Impartiality

• Reviews must be conducted objectively, without personal criticism of the author(s).

• Assess the work on its academic merits, regardless of nationality, institutional affiliation, gender, or beliefs of the author(s).

b) Confidentiality

• All manuscripts and review-related correspondence are strictly confidential.

• Do not share, discuss, or use any information from the manuscript for personal or professional advantage.

c) Timeliness

• Reviewers should complete their review within 3–4 weeks of accepting the invitation.

• If unable to review, notify the editorial office promptly so another reviewer can be assigned.

d) Conflict of Interest

• Disclose any real or potential conflicts of interest (financial, institutional, collaborative, or personal) before accepting the review.

• Decline to review if such conflicts could bias the evaluation.

3. Evaluation Criteria

When reviewing a manuscript, please consider the following:

1. Originality and Contribution

   • Is the work original and significant to the field of international commercial law and technology?

   • Does it advance knowledge or understanding?

2. Relevance to the Journal

   • Is the topic within JICLT’s scope?

   • Does it address issues of importance to researchers, policymakers, or practitioners?

3. Methodology

   • Are the research methods clearly described, appropriate, and rigorous?

   • Is the data reliable and well-analyzed?

4. Clarity and Structure

   • Is the manuscript logically organized and clearly written?

   • Are tables, figures, and references appropriate and properly formatted?

5. Ethical Standards

   • Is there evidence of plagiarism or data fabrication?

   • Were ethical considerations (e.g., human subjects, permissions) followed?

4. Review Format

Reviews should be submitted via the online submission system and include:

• Overall Recommendation: Accept, Minor Revisions, Major Revisions, or Reject.

• Comments for the Author: Constructive, detailed feedback aimed at improving the manuscript.

• Confidential Comments to the Editor: Private observations or concerns not to be shared with the author.

5. Ethical Considerations (COPE Guidelines)

JICLT follows the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) code of conduct for reviewers. Reviewers must:

• Avoid reviewing work if they have collaborated with the authors within the past three years.

• Immediately report any suspected ethical misconduct (e.g., plagiarism, data manipulation).

• Refrain from using unpublished work for personal benefit.

6. Recognition and Benefits

• Reviewers are acknowledged annually on the JICLT website (with consent).

• Certificates of appreciation are issued upon request.

• Outstanding reviewers may be invited to join the Editorial Board.

7. Declining a Review Invitation

If unable to accept a review request, please:

• Decline promptly to avoid delays.

• Suggest alternative reviewers with relevant expertise (if possible).

8. Contact for Reviewer Support

Editorial Office – Journal of International Commercial Law and Technology (JICLT)

Publisher: Kuwait Scientific Society

Email: editor@jiclt.com

Website: www.jiclt.com