The Dynamics of Local Government and Governance Studies: A Bibliometric Analysis of Scopus Publications (2017–2025)

Itno Husen; Rahmat Abd Fatah

doi:10.52046/jssh.v5i2.2748

Authors

Itno Husen Universitas Terbuka Ternate, Indonesia
Rahmat Abd Fatah Universitas Muhammadiyah Maluku Utara, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52046/jssh.v5i2.2748

Keywords:

Local Government, Governance, Bibliometric Analysis, VOSviewer, Evidence-Based Governance

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the evolving dynamics of local government and governance research through a bibliometric approach based on Scopus data from 2017 to 2025. Employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by the PRISMA framework, the study integrates network analysis using VOSviewer on 612 selected articles from an initial dataset of 5,744 documents. The findings reveal a significant increase in publication output alongside the emergence of three principal research clusters: participatory governance, model-based empirical approaches, and technology-driven governance. These patterns indicate a paradigm shift from normative frameworks toward evidence-based and digital governance. Furthermore, the analysis uncovers notable geographical disparities in knowledge production, with a concentration of scholarly contributions in specific countries dominating the global discourse. This study contributes theoretically by synthesizing multiple governance paradigms into an integrated analytical framework, while offering practical insights through a comprehensive mapping of research developments. Consequently, it provides a critical foundation for understanding the trajectory of local governance in an increasingly dynamic and complex global context.

Author Biographies

Itno Husen, Universitas Terbuka Ternate

Program Studi Ilmu Pemerintahan Universitas Terbuka, Ternate, Indonesia.

Rahmat Abd Fatah, Universitas Muhammadiyah Maluku Utara

Program Studi Sosiologi Universitas Muhammadiyah Maluku Utara, Indonesia

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