LGBTQIA+-Inclusive Humanitarian Action in the Philippines

Humanitarian crises affect diverse populations in complex ways, often exacerbating pre-existing vulnerabilities and inequalities. Among those disproportionately impacted are LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and other SOGIESC – sexual orientations, gender identities, and sex characteristics) individuals and communities. In the Philippines – a country that frequently experiences humanitarian emergencies, such as pandemics, conflict, and environmental hazards – LGBTQIA+ people face unique challenges. Both LGBTQIA+ people and the challenges they face are often overlooked in humanitarian action – from the planning stage to the implementation and evaluation of initiatives

This SSHAP Brief aims to provide local and regional non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and others involved in development and humanitarian programming in the Philippines with key considerations for addressing the complex needs of LGBTQIA+ people in humanitarian contexts. It seeks to support humanitarian actors to design and implement more effective, equitable and inclusive activities. To this end, the brief examines the social, economic and legal landscape for LGBTQIA+ groups, exploring their specific capacities and vulnerabilities during crises and offering practical guidance.

Drawing on academic and grey literature and consultations with academic, humanitarian and community experts, this brief also bridges a gap between short-term crisis response and long-term transformational change. This brief emphasises the importance of LGBTQIA+ inclusion across all phases of humanitarian action. Ultimately, it aims to contribute to building more resilient LGBTQIA+ communities and a more inclusive humanitarian sector in the Philippines.