COPE brings together all those involved in scholarly research and its publication to strengthen the network of support, education and debate in publication ethics
Our core practices
Core practices are the policies and practices journals and publishers need, to reach the highest standards in publication ethics. We include cases with advice, guidance for day-to-day practice, education modules and events on topical issues, to support journals and publishers fulfil their policies.
Guidance & discussion
![Identify potential fraudulent activity and use the flowcharts when handling suspected manipulation Guidance for publishers and journals when handling systematic manipulation of the publication process](https://publicationethics.org/files/images/social/systematic-manipulation-publication-process-tw.jpg)
Flowcharts and infographics offer a step by step process for editors and publishers to use when handling suspected manipulation before and after publication. Recommended actions are given, depending on the investigation findings and level of confidence in the findings that systematic manipulation of the publication process has occurred.
Peer review guidance is available for peer reviewers, editors and publishers, and we launch the fourth version of the Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing.
COPE Members held a discussion on conference proceedings at the recent COPE Forum. We are keen to hear comments and questions from all involved in conference proceedings.
Watch the introduction to the Forum discussion on "Dealing with complaints about the integrity of published research" and read the discussion points raised at the Forum. We welcome your comments.
![Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing with logos of the four organisations who developed the guidelines: COPE, Directory of Open Access Journals, Open Access Scholarly Publishing Association, World Association of Medical E Principles of Transparency and Best Practice in Scholarly Publishing version 4 launched September 2022](https://publicationethics.org/files/principles-transparency-best-practice-home.png)
The Principles of Transparency has been updated to align with today's scholarly publishing landscape. These guiding principles are intended as a foundation to help existing and new journals reach the best possible standards in scholarly publishing.
Peer review flowcharts offer a step by step process, with practical help for editors and reviewers.
Unsure of your ethical obligations as a peer reviewer? The guidelines are designed to help peer reviewers by setting out the basic principles and standards.
Whether and under what circumstances should an editor modify a peer review?