What is the primary reason for reviewers with a conflict of interest to withdraw from the review process?

The primary reason for reviewers with a conflict of interest to withdraw from the review process is to eliminate any potential bias in the review. When a reviewer has a conflict of interest, whether personal, financial, or professional, their ability to evaluate the work impartially is compromised. By withdrawing, they help ensure that the review process remains fair and objective, which is crucial for upholding the integrity of the evaluation system. This not only protects the credibility of the review but also maintains trust in the overall research process and its outcomes.

Maintaining confidentiality is important in the review process, but it does not directly address the potential biases introduced by conflicts of interest. Similarly, compliance with legal regulations and comprehensive evaluations are significant aspects of the review process, yet they do not directly mitigate the risk of bias that arises from a conflict of interest. Thus, eliminating potential bias is the key concern that drives reviewers to step away when they have a conflict.