Scientometric and empiric analysis: Looking back to the future strengthening law and governance

This study analyzes trends in strengthening law and governance using a scientometric approach to provide a data-driven overview of its evolution over the past decade. The methodology employed involves collecting data from leading academic databases, with 854 articles using the search keywords “strengthening law and governance” in the Web of Science (WoS) database. Additionally, bibliometric analysis software was used to map publications, researcher collaborations, and key research topics from 2013 to 2023. The study reveals a significant rise in publications on strengthening law and governance, increasing from 157 (2013–2016) to 301 (2017–2020), and 416 (2021–2023). Network visualization identifies key research clusters in environmental studies, law, and economics, with leading researchers and institutions mainly in the U.S. and U.K. Emerging trends focus on global and international health. The study highlights the need for institutional and international collaboration to address global challenges in legal strengthening and governance. The practical implications of this research provide guidance for policymakers and academics to direct research and policy development that is more targeted and evidence-based.