Complaints, Corrections and Appeals Procedure

1. Scope

This procedure applies to concerns about the IAOA website, institutional cooperation, events, programmes, public statements, relationship descriptions and administrative conduct. Journal editorial appeals and publication ethics concerns should first follow the policy and contact route of the relevant journal.

2. How to Submit a Concern

Send a clear written description to info@iaoalliance.org. Include the relevant page, activity, date, people involved, supporting information and the outcome requested. Anonymous concerns may be considered where sufficient evidence is provided, but anonymity can limit the review.

3. Initial Handling

IAOA will normally acknowledge a substantive concern within ten working days. The matter will be directed to a person who is reasonably independent from the issue where practicable. Additional information may be requested.

4. Review and Outcome

The review may result in clarification, correction, removal of content, an apology, procedural improvement, referral to a journal or partner institution, or no action where the concern is not supported. IAOA aims to provide an outcome within thirty working days, although complex matters may require longer.

5. Appeals

A person directly affected may request one further review where there is relevant new evidence, a material factual error or a significant procedural concern. The request should be made within twenty working days of the outcome.

6. Confidentiality and Good Faith

Information will be shared only as reasonably necessary for review. IAOA will not tolerate retaliation against a person raising a genuine concern. Deliberately false, abusive or repetitive submissions may be closed without further action.

7. Urgent Matters

Immediate security, safeguarding, fraud or legal concerns should be clearly marked as urgent. Where appropriate, IAOA may refer a matter to the relevant institution, service provider or authority.