Do some journals require proof of independent ethical review for research involving human participants?

Many academic journals indeed require proof of independent ethical review for research involving human participants. This requirement is rooted in the principles of human research ethics, which prioritize the protection of participants and the integrity of the research process. An independent ethical review helps ensure that the research has been evaluated for its ethical considerations, including informed consent, risk assessment, and the adherence to guidelines aimed at safeguarding participants' rights and welfare.

The ethical review typically comes from an Institutional Review Board (IRB) or an ethics committee that assesses the research proposal to ensure compliance with ethical standards. By requiring this proof, journals can demonstrate their commitment to ethical research practices and contribute to maintaining public trust in scientific investigations.

In contrast, if a journal did not require such proof, it might suggest a less rigorous approach to ethics oversight, which could raise concerns about the ethical treatment of participants in the studies published within that journal. Thus, the requirement for documentation of an independent ethical review is an important aspect of research integrity and accountability.