IFPASA Statement on Advocating for Fair Compensation for Reviewers
At the International Fellowship Program in Arbitration and Scientific Assessment (IFPASA), we believe that peer reviewers are the cornerstone of scientific progress, ensuring the quality, accuracy, and integrity of research. Their expertise, diligence, and commitment uphold the credibility of the scientific community and directly contribute to advancing knowledge in all fields.
Despite the vital role they play, reviewers often receive limited recognition and no financial compensation for their efforts. This imbalance undermines their value and can negatively impact the sustainability of high-quality peer review practices.
IFPASA strongly advocates for the implementation of fair compensation models for reviewers. Recognizing their efforts not only ensures equity but also incentivizes excellence, fosters diversity, and promotes the engagement of talented individuals in the peer review process.
We urge journal publishers, research institutions, and academic organizations to:
- Adopt Fair Compensation Models: Establish financial or other meaningful forms of recognition for reviewers based on their contributions.
- Promote Transparency: Clearly define reviewer compensation policies and ensure their consistent application.
- Encourage Institutional Support: Advocate for academic institutions to include peer review activities as a measurable and valued contribution in performance evaluations and career progression.
- Foster Innovation in Compensation: Explore creative solutions, such as providing professional development opportunities, waivers for publication fees, or credits toward academic certifications.
By acknowledging the critical work of reviewers, we can collectively strengthen the peer review process, uphold scientific standards, and build a more equitable research ecosystem.
We invite researchers, institutions, and publishers to join us in this important initiative to ensure the recognition and fair treatment of peer reviewers globally. Together, we can drive a positive transformation in the culture of scientific assessment.
