From Evidence to Practice: Quantitative Synthesis and Thematic Analysis of Inclusive, Accessible, and Disability-Sensitive Urban Planning

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and the rising rates of disability in all parts of the globe have enhanced the necessity of inclusive, accessible and disability sensitive urban planning. Although international frameworks, including the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Sustainable Development Goal 11, have normative commitments to accessibility, their application in city contexts is uneven. The paper aims to synthesize quantitative findings and qualitative data to guide practical action in urban planning to ensure equity and the involvement of people with disabilities. It involved a systematic review using PRISMA, which combined the meta- summary measures to combine the quantitative data and thematic analysis to combine the qualitative evidence of the empirical studies published between 2019 and 2026. The results have shown increased accessibility and mobility of infrastructure, which are not evenly distributed in the context of urban settings. Chronic obstacles involve disjointed governance systems, inadequate participatory action, and intersectional issues of individuals with mixed or concealed disabilities. Based on the synthesis, the proposed paper advocates an evidence-to-practice model that can guide planners and policymakers in integrating the concepts of inclusive design, improving participation-based planning, and creating monitoring systems to guarantee equitable access. The framework highlights the focus on integrating the technical, social and governance aspects as a key to developing urban places that are not only accessible but also socially right.