Application of Blockchain Technology in Emergency Management Systems: A Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative solution to address specific aspects of emergency management systems by providing a decentralized and distributed ledger infrastructure that enhances data immutability, transparency, and traceability. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of blockchain applications in emergency management covering the period from 2017 to 2024 and based on 248 research articles indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection. The analysis examines collaboration networks, co-citation patterns, citation bursts, and keyword trends to uncover key research clusters and emerging themes. Seven major clusters were identified, with their intellectual core built around influential publications that highlight blockchain’s role in improving transparency, efficiency, and trust in emergency response systems. The findings emphasize the growing impact of blockchain technology in enhancing preparedness and resilience during crises while identifying gaps in global collaboration and interdisciplinary innovation.