Q: Can an editor take a decision on a manuscript independently, ignoring reviewers' recommendations?

Many journals do not have a peer review process for certain article types, for instance, short communications or letters to the editor. These articles are usually published based on the editor's evaluation and decision.

However, original research articles, review articles, opinion/perspective pieces, and other longer article types should ideally be sent for peer review and the editorial decision should be based on the reviewers' recommendation. This is done to avoid any bias on the part of the editor and to have an objective evaluation of the manuscript.

Having said that, the final decision is the editor's and he/she can override the reviewers' recommendation if he/she is not convinced. Usually, in such cases, the editor sends the paper out for a second round of review or takes the opinion of the editorial board. 

However, it would be unethical for an editor to indicate to a peer reviewer that he/she should recommend an acceptance. In fact, it would be unethical for an editor to try to influence the reviewers' opinion towards a manuscript in any way. That would defeat the very purpose of peer review.  

Related reading:

• Who takes the final decision on a manuscript: the AE or EiC?
• Behind the scenes: How a journal editor reaches a decision on a manuscript after peer review