Uncompromising Scientific Integrity

Over the past 40 years, IAPAC has remained steadfast in its mission to support the science that drives improved health outcomes and addresses disparities in HIV care. Today, we reaffirm that the Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care (JIAPAC) will never alter or decline to publish peer-reviewed research accepted for publication due to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) considerations or any other external restrictions that compromise the integrity of scientific inquiry. Doing so would be anti-science and antithetical to our core values.

Scientific progress thrives on an uncompromising commitment to empirical evidence and the free exchange of ideas. The peer-review process—designed to evaluate research based on methodological soundness, originality, and relevance—remains the gold standard for academic publishing. Any attempt to retroactively modify, suppress, or reject research that has passed this rigorous evaluation due to ideological objections or external pressures undermines the very foundation of science.

The HIV research community understands the devastating consequences of ignoring or suppressing scientific evidence. Early in the epidemic, political and societal reluctance to acknowledge the realities of HIV transmission delayed critical interventions, costing lives. We have witnessed similar consequences in other public health crises, from COVID-19 to reproductive health and beyond. As a journal, and as an organization, we will not be complicit in repeating such mistakes.

JIAPAC operates with editorial independence to ensure that published research meets the highest standards of academic rigor and ethical responsibility. We unequivocally reject any attempts to interfere with the dissemination of research findings based on factors unrelated to scientific validity. Whether those pressures stem from governmental entities, funding bodies, institutional policies, or public opinion, our response is clear: JIAPAC will not compromise on its editorial principles.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not antithetical to scientific integrity; they enhance its integrity. Promoting diverse perspectives in research generates innovation, enriches the scope of inquiry, and leads to more comprehensive solutions to complex health challenges. In the realm of HIV care and prevention, DEI considerations are not ideological—they are fundamental to addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to interventions.

Historically, marginalized populations have been underrepresented in clinical research. Addressing these disparities does not mean compromising scientific rigor; rather, it strengthens the validity and applicability of research findings. At JIAPAC, we encourage submissions that explore the intersections of science, policy, and equity, recognizing that real-world impact requires an inclusive approach to scientific inquiry.

JIAPAC stands in solidarity with all scientific journals and publishing entities that uphold the principles of editorial independence and scientific integrity. We call upon our peers in the academic publishing industry to publicly affirm their commitment to these principles. The selective suppression of research based on DEI considerations or other non-scientific rationales sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the credibility of the entire field.

In the face of increasing attempts to curtail academic freedom, scientific journals must serve as unwavering defenders of evidence-based knowledge. We urge authors, reviewers, and editorial boards to remain vigilant against any encroachments on the integrity of the peer-review and publication process. The pursuit of truth—wherever it may lead—must remain paramount.

We encourage researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to continue submitting their work to JIAPAC, confident in the knowledge that our editorial decisions are grounded in scientific merit alone. Whether addressing biomedical advancements, implementation science, or the sociopolitical determinants of health, we welcome contributions that advance the global fight against HIV and related health challenges.

For four decades, IAPAC has championed evidence-based interventions that save lives. We will not waver in our commitment to the principle that science must remain untainted by censorship or ideological manipulation. At JIAPAC, our responsibility is to the truth, and we will continue to honor that responsibility without compromise.

Dr José M. Zuniga is an Editor Emeritus in JIAPAC and President/CEO of IAPAC.

Dr Chris Duncombe is an Editor-in-Chief of JIAPAC and Vice President/CMO of IAPAC.