Decoding the urban slums and crime connection: a bibliometric insight into global research trends

Purpose This study aims to examine global research trends on the relationship between urban slums and crime by analyzing publication patterns, citation structures, key contributors and recurring thematic factors discussed in the literature. Design/methodology/approach A bibliometric analysis was conducted on 228 Scopus-indexed articles published between 2005 and 2024, using VOSviewer to map collaboration networks and thematic structures. Findings The results indicate a substantial growth in research output after 2019, driven by increasing concerns over urbanization, inequality and public safety. The literature consistently highlights socioeconomic deprivation, weak governance, environmental conditions and social fragmentation as key factors associated with crime in slum contexts. Research limitations/implications The findings underscore the importance of integrated, place-based policy approaches frequently emphasized in the literature, combining physical upgrading, social empowerment and institutional strengthening. Practical implications Practically, the findings highlight limited international collaboration and geographic concentration of studies as key research gaps. To address these issues, policymakers and research institutions are encouraged to establish international research consortia or regional hubs focused on slum-related crime to facilitate cross-country data sharing and methodological innovation. Equally important is the allocation of targeted funding and technical support for joint projects between Global South and Global North institutions to ensure equitable knowledge exchange and capacity building. Policymakers should also integrate slum-specific crime indicators into national urban development and public safety agendas to align research with concrete policy outcomes. Social implications By synthesizing fragmented research, this study supports more inclusive, evidence-informed discussions on urban safety and living conditions in slum settlements. Originality/value This study provides the first comprehensive bibliometric synthesis of global scholarship on urban slums and crime, offering a structured overview of research developments, thematic concentrations and existing knowledge gaps.