PwD Sensitivity in Planning Mega Cultural Events: A Bibliometric Analysis

Purpose This bibliometric study examines global research trends, collaboration networks, and thematic progress concerning Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), with a focus on accessibility, universal design, ensuring social and cultural inclusion, and their involvement in major public/cultural/sporting events. Design/methodology/approach A bibliometric study reviewed 88 Scopus-indexed publications (2000-2025) on mega cultural events. Using Scopus Analytics and VOSviewer, it visualized co-authorship, keyword co-occurrence, country collaboration, and citations to reveal connections within the literature. Findings Publication growth surged after 2015, aligning with policy milestones such as the UNCRPD (2006) and the SDGs (10, 11). Western countries, primarily the US and the UK, dominate research, while India and Brazil are becoming increasingly active. Key themes include accessibility, universal design, and social inclusion; however, connections to cultural aspects and event management are limited. Collaboration networks are moderate, with Darcy and Dickson as key influencers. Research Limitations/Future Scope The research is limited to data from Scopus and the VOSviewer Tool, which is more quantitative and does not assess qualitative content. There is potential to combine multiple databases to create a larger pool of studies and explore other bibliometric tools, such as cluster analysis, themes, and a sub-theme-based approach, for a more detailed and diverse thematic analysis. Research Implications Findings can facilitate policymakers, festival organizers, and urban planners in creating adaptable accessibility frameworks, particularly for significant cultural events in India and at the international level for events of global significance. Originality/value This is one of the first bibliometric studies to link the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities to the planning of cultural and mega-events, thereby offering an evidence-based basis for developing inclusive and equitable events.