Privacy Statement

The Social Trends and Policy Review (STPR) is committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and personal data of its authors, reviewers, editors, and readers. This policy outlines what information we collect, how it is used, and the measures we take to safeguard it.

1. Information We Collect

a) From Authors:

  • Full name, institutional affiliation, job title, and contact details.

  • ORCID ID (if provided).

  • Manuscript files, supplementary data, and disclosure statements.

  • Ethics approval documentation (where applicable).

b) From Reviewers:

  • Name, institutional affiliation, email address, and areas of expertise.

  • Reviewing history and reviewer comments.

c) From Readers/Website Visitors:

  • Email addresses (when signing up for alerts or newsletters).

  • Non-identifiable website usage statistics via cookies and analytics tools.

2. How We Use the Information

We use collected information solely for purposes related to the editorial and publication process, including:

  • Processing and managing manuscript submissions.

  • Communicating with authors, reviewers, and editors.

  • Maintaining accurate academic and bibliographic records.

  • Sending journal announcements, calls for papers, or updates (only to those who opt in).

3. Data Sharing and Disclosure

  • No Unauthorised Sharing: STPR does not sell, rent, or share personal data with third parties for marketing purposes.

  • Service Providers: Information may be shared with trusted partners (e.g., plagiarism detection services, typesetting providers) strictly for publication-related functions.

  • Legal Compliance: Data may be disclosed when required by law or court order.

4. Data Storage and Security

  • All personal and manuscript data are stored on secure, password-protected servers with regular backups.

  • Access to sensitive information is restricted to authorized editorial and administrative staff.

  • Data transfers are encrypted wherever possible.

5. Cookies and Website Analytics

  • The STPR website may use cookies to enhance user experience and collect anonymous traffic statistics.

  • Users can adjust browser settings to decline cookies, although this may limit site functionality.

6. Rights of Authors, Reviewers, and Readers

  • Access and Correction: Individuals may request to review or correct their personal data.

  • Withdrawal of Consent: Users may request deletion of their personal information after completion of editorial processes, subject to academic record retention requirements.

7. Data Retention

  • Manuscript and peer review records are retained permanently as part of the scholarly archive.

  • Contact information is retained only as long as necessary for journal operations.

8. Compliance

STPR complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and all applicable national data protection laws.