Promoting research integrity and excellence in Chinese HRM studies

Purpose – This editorial essay aims to focus on research integrity and commitment to excellence by analyzing the transitioning symptom associated with the Chinese research community as causes for concerns in research ethics and misconduct. The authors highlight their editorial process and practice in safeguarding research integrity at JCHRM and address related ethical issues on duplicate submissions in relation to their editorial experience. Design/methodology/approach – This article adopts an approach combining literature review and reflexive analysis. Findings – The current academic misconduct and ethical concerns in China are caused by a number of concurrent counterforces: increased attractive opportunities in moonlighting; research mindset rooted in the traditional learning orientation on imitation and contemporary education on rote learning; and heightened publication‐based performance requirement enforced by the government and institutions. These counterforces are further complicated by the ongoing socio‐cultural context, e.g. the drinking and eating culture. The authors report their editorial steps in safeguarding research integrity and commitment to excellence. In relation to submitting translated published papers to an English journal, they emphasize that originality is the core. They are committed to facilitate the transition of Chinese HRM research community to conform to the international standard. Originality/value – This article links professional ethics, research integrity, and commitment to excellence to developing Chinese scholarly human resources. It articulates specific goals, principles, and responsibilities of JCHRM editorial practices for promoting high‐quality Chinese HRM research.