Peer Review Process

Peer Review

FMRJ employs a rigorous, multi-stage peer review process to ensure scholarly quality.

Double-Blind Peer Review

FMRJ uses a double-blind peer review system, in which the identities of authors and reviewers are concealed from each other. Manuscripts are anonymized before being sent to reviewers, and reviewer identities are withheld from authors throughout the process.

This system minimizes bias and enhances objectivity.

Peer Review Process

FMRJ’s review process consists of three stages: Editorial Office Review, External Review, and Editorial Decision.

Editorial Office Review

Upon submission, manuscripts are checked for:

a) Plagiarism

Similarity is evaluated using plagiarism-detection software. Manuscripts with high similarity are rejected, and authors receive the similarity report.

b) Structure and Scope

Manuscripts must follow the journal’s recommended structure. Non-compliant submissions are returned for correction.

c) Recent References

Authors are encouraged to cite recent, relevant literature, preferably from the last ten years.

d) English Language Clarity

Manuscripts must be written in clear, correct English. Minor editorial corrections may be made. Manuscripts requiring major language editing are returned to authors.

This stage is typically completed within 21 days.

External Double-Blind Review

At least two expert reviewers evaluate the manuscript without knowing the authors’ identities. Reviewers assess:

  • Originality
  • Contribution to the field
  • Technical quality
  • Depth of research
  • Clarity of presentation

Reviewers make one of the following recommendations:

  • Accept
  • Minor revision
  • Moderate revision
  • Major revision
  • Not suitable for further processing

If reviewers’ opinions differ significantly, a third reviewer is invited. This stage is completed within four weeks, depending on reviewer availability.

Editorial Decision

After revision, the manuscript, reviewer comments, and author responses are evaluated by an editor, who may decide to:

  • Accept as submitted
  • Accept with minor corrections
  • Request major revision
  • Send for re-review
  • Reject

Accepted manuscripts proceed to publication.