Mapping Sexual and Gender Minority Inclusion in National Adaptation Plans Globally

Sexual and gender minorities (SGM) experience disproportionate climate impacts, yet no empirical analysis exists on their inclusion in adaptation planning. We ask: (1) To what extent are SGM included in National Adaptation Plans (NAPs)? and (2) How do legal and social status of SGM differ between countries that include or exclude them? We systematically map all available NAPs (or related documents in their absence, n = 256), analyzing inclusion across transformative capacity and climate justice. Of 198 UNFCCC member states, 23 mention SGM: 65% are SGM-sensitive (acknowledging disproportionate impacts on SGM), 26% SGM-responsive (taking action on impacts) and 9% SGM-transformative (addressing systemic drivers of impacts). Higher legal protections (p < 0.05) and positive public opinion (p < 0.01) are significantly correlated with inclusion of SGM in NAPs. Results highlight the need for collaborative, place-based SGM stakeholder engagement to inform adaptation planning, ensuring responses reflect local vulnerabilities and community priorities.