Barriers to Publication: Examining Bias Against Manuscript Acceptance from Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Abstract

Despite increasing global contributions to science, researchers from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to face disproportionate barriers to publishing in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals. These barriers are not solely due to the quality of research but are also shaped by structural inequities and implicit biases embedded within the global publishing ecosystem. This paper examines the mechanisms and consequences of such bias, including disparities in editorial representation, linguistic hurdles, topic devaluation, and systemic underfunding. Drawing on recent studies, experiences, and our own global initiatives to improve access to mentorship in scholarly writing, we highlight the persistence of these biases and their impact on the visibility, credibility, and influence of LMIC scholarship. We further explore how the gendered nature of the nursing profession, and broader patriarchal structures in academia, contribute to the suppression of knowledge produced by women and nurses in LMICs. Finally, we propose actionable recommendations to improve equity and representation in global scientific publishing. By improving equitable publishing practices, more diverse research can be disseminated. We hope readers find this editorial helpful in examining their own perspectives, identities, and potential biases and how they may influence their work.