Editorial Independence is Dead, Long Live Editorial IndependencePrinciples, Compliance, and Recommendations

Abstract

Editorial Independence is an essential principle in scientific publishing, protecting the content from undue influence beyond the scientific data. This involves assurances around research integrity, publications ethics, combatting undue influence from journal owners, and improving on research practices including peer review and declarations and management of conflicts of interest. In reality, there are many examples of these principles not being followed, and no formal regulator or mechanism to optimise other than through voluntary efforts of editors and journal owners. We set out some of the fundamental principles and challenges to editorial independence and propose protections and recommendations to improve practice, policy, values, and regulation.