What is the peer-review label?
The peer-review label is administered by the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies (TSV). Scholarly publishers can use the label on peer-reviewed books and articles. The peer-review label has become an established part of Finnish scholarly publishing. The right to use the label has been granted to 15 book publishers and more than 170 publication series.
Why is the peer-review label used?
The peer-review label makes the quality assurance of scholarly publications visible and promotes consistent peer-review practices in Finland. Publishers granted the right to use the label commit to common minimum requirements for peer review, transparency of the process and documentation.
This shared national framework helps publishers, reviewers and authors develop peer-review practices and supports the quality of scholarly publications. At the same time, the label clearly indicates to readers which books and articles have been peer reviewed.
Who can apply for the right to use the label?
Organisations engaged in regular scholarly publishing activities in Finland, such as learned societies and publishing houses, can apply for the right to use the label. Publishers do not need to publish only scholarly literature. General publishers may also apply for the right to use the label for their scholarly publications.
Requirements for the right to use the label
The right to use the peer-review label may be granted to a publisher that meets the requirements for its use.
To be granted the right to use the label:
- publications must undergo peer review by at least two independent experts
- reviewers must be external to the editorial board and independent in relation to the manuscript being reviewed
- the publisher must describe its peer-review practices on the publication channel’s website
- the publisher must document the peer-review process in accordance with the guidelines and commit to complying with the terms and conditions for using the peer-review label
Applying for the right to use the label is free of charge and does not require membership in the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies.
Read more about the terms and conditions for using the peer-review label
Maintenance and development of the peer-review label
The peer-review label was introduced in 2014. The Publication Forum Steering Group is responsible for developing the label and determining its key policies. The Publication Forum Secretariat is responsible for administering the label.
Publication Forum Steering Group
Apply for the peer-review label
You can apply for the right to use the peer-review label using the online application form. Before submitting your application, review the terms and conditions and ensure that your publication channel meets the requirements for using the label.