From: Matt McKay <[log in to unmask]>
 Date: Thu, 9 Aug 2018 08:19:43 +0000

*STM statement on the increase of unethical and deceptive journal practices*



The last decade has seen a worrying increase in the number of unethical
research publications, as well as an exponential rise in so-called
‘predatory’ journals and publishers. High levels of trust are vital to
ensuring that the publication and sharing of research results helps to
advance research, the global pool of knowledge and the careers of
researchers and investigators. Publication practices vary across both
academic disciplines and countries, but there are common ethical standards
and behaviours that ensure that articles that are published in trustworthy
peer-reviewed journals are of the highest standards.



STM is committed to both the highest standards of conduct as well as to
increasing the awareness of all stakeholders of the emerging issues that
affect modern journal publishing. Not only does STM actively support both
COPE and the Think. Check. Submit initiative, it also rigorously applies
its Code of Conduct <https://www.stm-assoc.org/membership/code-of-conduct/>
and policy on International Ethical Principles for Scholarly Publication
<https://www.stm-assoc.org/2013_05_21_STM_Ethical_Principles_for_Scholarly_Publication.pdf>
to both prospective and existing Association members.



There is an emerging challenge for both editors and publishers to ensure
that scholarly works are not only visible and impactful, but also
crucially, trusted. As STM commences its 50th year, we not only reaffirm
our commitment to common ethical standards, but also state our desire to
work collaboratively, across the entire scholarly communication ecosystem,
to ensure that peer-reviewed publication remains the ‘gold standard’ and
that authors, editors and reviews receive the best possible training and
support. Over the coming 12 months, STM will take a leading role in
industry initiatives aiming to both lower the uptake of sub-standard
journals, as well as to promote trustworthy, high quality publications that
ensure the long-term integrity of the scientific record.





*Matt McKay*

Director of Communications

International Association of STM Publishers