Retraction, Correction and Editorial Actions Policy

1. Purpose

The Macedonian Journal of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (MJCCE) is committed to maintaining the integrity of the scholarly record.

This policy outlines the procedures for:

  • Corrections (Errata and Corrigenda)
  • Retractions
  • Expressions of Concern
  • Article Removal (in exceptional circumstances)

All actions are guided by international publishing ethics standards and COPE recommendations.

2. Corrections (Errata and Corrigenda)

2.1 When a Correction Is Issued

A correction will be published when:

  • A significant error affects the accuracy of the publication
  • Data are misreported but conclusions remain valid
  • Author names, affiliations, or acknowledgments are incorrect
  • Funding or conflict-of-interest disclosures require amendment

Minor typographical errors that do not affect interpretation will not normally result in a formal correction.

2.2 Types of Corrections

  • Erratum – correction of errors introduced by the publisher
  • Corrigendum – correction of errors introduced by the authors

2.3 Format of Corrections

Corrections will:

  • Be published in a subsequent issue
  • Be clearly labeled as “Correction,” “Erratum,” or “Corrigendum”
  • Be linked electronically to the original article
  • Include a clear explanation of the change
  • Preserve the original version of record

3. Retractions

3.1 Grounds for Retraction

An article may be retracted if:

  • There is clear evidence of data fabrication or falsification
  • Plagiarism is detected
  • Ethical standards for human or animal research were violated
  • Findings are unreliable due to serious methodological error
  • Duplicate or redundant publication is identified
  • Undisclosed conflicts of interest compromise the integrity of the work

Retraction is intended to correct the scholarly record, not to punish authors.

3.2 Retraction Procedure

When concerns arise:

  1. The Editor-in-Chief initiates a preliminary investigation.
  2. Authors are contacted and given opportunity to respond.
  3. Additional documentation may be requested.
  4. The Editorial Board evaluates the evidence.
  5. The decision is made in accordance with COPE guidelines.

The Journal may contact authors’ institutions where appropriate.

3.3 Retraction Notice

A retraction notice will:

  • Be clearly labeled as “Retraction”
  • State the reason(s) for retraction
  • Identify who is retracting the article (authors or editor)
  • Be linked to the original article
  • Remain permanently accessible

The original article will not be removed but will be clearly marked as retracted on every page.

4. Expressions of Concern

An Expression of Concern may be issued when:

  • There is inconclusive evidence of misconduct
  • An institutional investigation is ongoing
  • Serious allegations have been raised but not yet resolved

The notice will remain linked to the article until the matter is resolved.

5. Article Removal (Exceptional Cases)

Removal of a published article will occur only in rare cases, such as:

  • Legal requirements (court order)
  • Defamation
  • Risk to public health or safety
  • Severe breach of privacy

In such cases:

  • The article text will be removed
  • A removal notice will replace it
  • The bibliographic record will remain

6. Image Manipulation and Data Integrity

If inappropriate image manipulation or data alteration is detected:

  • Authors will be asked to provide original data
  • Minor issues may result in correction
  • Serious manipulation may lead to retraction

7. Post-Publication Complaints

Concerns regarding published articles should be sent to the Editor-in-Chief with:

  • Detailed description of the issue
  • Supporting documentation

All complaints will be treated confidentially and investigated thoroughly.

8. Transparency and Record Preservation

All editorial actions (corrections, retractions, expressions of concern) will:

  • Be freely accessible
  • Be permanently linked to the original article
  • Maintain the integrity of the scholarly record

The Journal is committed to transparency and accountability in correcting the literature.

9. Compliance with International Standards

This policy follows best practice recommendations from:

  • Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE)
  • International Committee of Medical Journal Editors

The Journal reserves the right to update this policy in accordance with evolving international standards.