AI Policy

The journal recognises that generative artificial intelligence (AI) and AI-assisted technologies may support research and scholarly communication. Their use must remain transparent and responsible; AI cannot replace human intellectual contribution, critical judgement, or accountability.

Authors’ Use of AI

·       Authors may use AI for language editing, translation, organising text, preliminary literature discovery, coding, computation, or analysis, provided that the use is appropriate and the results are checked by the authors.

·       Authors remain fully responsible for all content, data, interpretations, citations, references, images, and conclusions in the submitted manuscript.

·       Authors must verify AI-generated references and factual claims, protect confidential or personal data, and comply with copyright and research-ethics requirements.

Disclosure

Substantive use of AI in preparing the manuscript, developing arguments, analysing data, or producing material included in the article must be disclosed. The statement should identify the tool or service and the purpose of use. Basic spelling or grammar correction alone need not be disclosed unless the journal’s submission instructions require it.

AI Cannot Be an Author

AI systems cannot be listed as authors or co-authors because they cannot accept accountability, approve the final manuscript, or take responsibility for research integrity.

AI in Research Methods and Visuals

When AI forms part of the research method, authors should report the model or tool, version where available, purpose, procedure, relevant prompts or parameters, and human validation steps as appropriate. AI must not be used to fabricate or misrepresent data, images, or empirical evidence.

Reviewers and Editors

Reviewers and editors must not upload confidential manuscripts or substantive confidential content to public or non-private AI services that do not ensure confidentiality. AI must not replace independent reviewer judgement or editorial decision-making.

Unacceptable Uses

Unacceptable practices include fabricating data or references, concealing plagiarism, misrepresenting AI output as verified evidence, failing to disclose substantive AI use when required, and exposing confidential manuscripts through unsafe AI services.

Enforcement

Possible responses to a breach include requests for clarification, revision, rejection, or post-publication action, depending on the seriousness and evidence. Allegations must be assessed fairly and proportionately.