Designing Inclusive Urban Planning Platforms Integrating Real-Time Sign Language Interpretation for Deaf Community Participation in Policymaking

Abstract: Urban planning processes often marginalize people with disabilities, especially members of the Deaf community, due to limited accessibility in communication channels used in public consultations and decision-making forums. This review explores how real-time sign language interpretation technologies can be integrated into digital urban planning platforms to foster inclusive governance and participatory policymaking. It examines existing barriers to participation, technological advancements in real-time interpretation, and frameworks for inclusive design in civic technology. Drawing on interdisciplinary research from urban studies, disability rights, and digital accessibility innovation, the study highlights best practices and case studies where urban planning has been made more inclusive for deaf individuals. It also critiques existing digital platforms used in municipal planning and evaluates how they can be restructured to include accessible features such as live sign language interpretation, captioning, and user-centered design principles. The paper underscores the need for a policy shift towards equity in civic engagement and presents a strategic roadmap for embedding accessibility in smart city initiatives. Ultimately, this review advocates for participatory justice through inclusive technology, ensuring that the voices of the Deaf community are heard and valued in shaping urban futures. Keywords: Inclusive Urban Planning; Sign Language Interpretation; Deaf Community Participation; Accessible Digital Platforms; Civic Engagement Technology. Title: Designing Inclusive Urban Planning Platforms Integrating Real-Time Sign Language Interpretation for Deaf Community Participation in Policymaking Author: Bukola Linda Oloba, Ngozi Faith Oguejiofor, Yinka Samuel Ogunlana, Paul Okugo Imoh, Toyosi Motilola Olola International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 3, July 2025 - September 2025 Page No: 198-213 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 18-August-2025 Amendment Date: 29-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17473833 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/designing-inclusive-urban-planning-platforms-integrating-real-time-sign-language-interpretation-for-deaf-community-participation-in-policymaking