Whistleblowing

Al-Muhafidz welcomes good-faith reports about concerns that affect the integrity of research or publication. This policy explains how reporters and their identifying information are protected. Instructions for making a report and the initial assessment are described under Allegation of Research Misconduct.

1. Fair Treatment of Reporters
Each report is assessed on its substance and on the supporting information it provides. The reporter’s seniority, institutional affiliation, professional standing, or relationship with the journal must not determine whether a credible concern is taken seriously.

No member of the journal’s staff or editorial team may retaliate against anyone for raising a concern in good faith. A report that cannot be substantiated is not, for that reason alone, a malicious report.

Knowingly fabricated evidence or threats may be dealt with separately. However, such conduct does not justify ignoring credible evidence that is independent of it. Al-Muhafidz cannot guarantee protection against actions taken by organizations outside its control.

2. Confidential and Anonymous Reporting
Reporters may ask that their identity be restricted to those who need it for the assessment. Anonymous reports may also be considered, provided the evidence is specific enough to be examined.

The journal cannot promise complete anonymity. A reporter’s identity may be inferred from the circumstances, and disclosure may be required by law or be necessary for a fair assessment. Where this is feasible and lawful, the journal will discuss any necessary disclosure with the reporter beforehand.

Evidence may need to be shared with the people concerned so that they can respond. Identifying details should be removed wherever they are not necessary. Ordinary email is not a dedicated anonymous reporting system, so reporters should not rely on it for full anonymity.

3. Communication and Handling Conflicts
Reporters may be asked for clarification and, where contact is possible, may receive updates on the process. Confidentiality obligations may limit what can be shared, including private responses, institutional findings, and internal deliberations.

Reporters should name any person whose involvement could compromise the handling of the report. A report concerning the editorial office may be submitted through the publisher’s contact, [almuhafidzjurnal@gmail.com], so that it can be routed appropriately. Independent assessment must still be arranged if the publisher is also implicated.