The policy is based on COPE's core practices and WAME's guidelines.

The Women, Midwives and Midwifery Journal is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct. In alignment with this commitment, the journal has established a robust system to address allegations of possible misconduct. The process outlined below ensures a fair, thorough, and transparent handling of such allegations:

1. Receipt of Allegations:
   • The journal will acknowledge receipt of all allegations of misconduct within a stipulated timeframe and will treat them confidentially.
   • All allegations should be directed to the journal's ethics committee via the official communication channels.
2. Preliminary Assessment:
   • An initial assessment will be conducted to determine the validity of the allegations.
   • If the allegations are deemed to be baseless or frivolous, no further action will be taken.
3. Investigation:
   • If the allegations warrant further investigation, a formal inquiry will be initiated.
   • The investigation will be thorough, impartial, and carried out in a timely manner.
4. Communication:
   • All relevant parties will be notified about the investigation, and will be given an opportunity to respond.
   • The journal will maintain open communication throughout the investigation process, while ensuring confidentiality.
5. Resolution:
   • Based on the findings of the investigation, appropriate action will be taken.
   • Corrective measures may include, but are not limited to, the issuance of corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern.
6. Documentation:
   • All steps taken in responding to allegations of misconduct will be documented.
   • The journal will maintain a record of all misconduct investigations and their outcomes.

This policy demonstrates the journal's unyielding commitment to addressing misconduct allegations responsibly and transparently, thereby safeguarding the integrity and credibility of the scholarly record.