Why should reviewers with a conflict of interest withdraw from the review process?

Reviewers with a conflict of interest should withdraw from the review process primarily to reduce the likelihood of bias affecting the evaluation. Conflicts of interest can arise from personal relationships, financial interests, or other affiliations that may compromise a reviewer’s objectivity. When reviewers are not impartial, their assessments can skew the outcomes, leading to unfair advantages or disadvantages for the research being reviewed.

By stepping back from the review, these reviewers help maintain the integrity of the review process, ensuring that decisions are based solely on the quality and merit of the work presented rather than personal interests or biases. This principle is fundamental to the ethical conduct of research and peer reviews, promoting fairness and confidence in the scholarly community. The focus on eliminating bias protects not only the credibility of the review process but also the trust placed in research findings by stakeholders and the public.