Why do we need international standards on responsible research publication for authors and editors?

Peer-reviewed publication is a vital step in the research process and permits research findings to be communicated effectively to readers. The peer review process is designed to select work of relevance to particular audiences, to improve the quality of reporting, and thus increase its transparency (eg, allowing methods to be replicated) [1]. Although it is by no means perfect, there is some evidence that peer review performs these functions, or at least that the quality of articles tends to improve from submission to publication [2,3]. However, peer review cannot, by itself, prevent fraud or misconduct, although in some cases it may help detect them. The publication process is therefore based on a degree of trust in the honesty and intentions of authors, reviewers, and editors.