Waiver Policy

Knowledge should not be gated by resources. To honor this principle, a Waiver Policy is in place that ensures financial circumstances never prevent valuable research from reaching the world. Waivers and discounts for Article Processing Charges (APCs) are offered thoughtfully, balancing sustainability with equity.

Eligibility

Authors may request a waiver at the time of submission if they:

• Are based in low- and middle-income countries, as classified by the World Bank.
• Lack institutional or grant funding to cover APCs.
• Are early-career researchers without stable financial support.

Requests are reviewed confidentially to protect author dignity. Every manuscript is evaluated on merit alone, and waiver requests never influence editorial decisions.

Extent of Waivers

A waiver of up to 50% may be granted for eligible authors. In exceptional cases, full waivers may be considered. The guiding principle is fairness—ensuring that cost does not silence important contributions.

Application Process

1. Submit a waiver request alongside your manuscript.
2. Provide a brief explanation of circumstances (institutional position, funding situation, etc.).
3. Wait for confirmation—waiver requests are handled promptly and respectfully.

Authors will be notified of the waiver decision before final acceptance and invoicing, so there are no surprises.

Values Underpinning the Policy

Waivers are not charity; they are a reflection of shared responsibility. Science grows stronger when voices from every corner of the world are included. By supporting authors with limited resources, this policy ensures that the scientific record reflects the diversity and richness of global inquiry.

Conclusion

A waiver policy is not about lowering barriers—it is about removing them entirely. By offering flexibility, the journal affirms a commitment to equity, fairness, and the belief that knowledge should be accessible to all, regardless of circumstance.