This Edge Effect scoping report for DFAT examines gaps and opportunities for improving diverse SOGIESC (LGBTQIA+) inclusion in cash transfer and social protection programs, during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond. Drawing on interviews across Indonesia, Bangladesh and Fiji, it finds that significant gaps still exist in inclusion.

The report documents the social protection needs of people with diverse SOGIESC, the compounding impacts of COVID-19, and recommendations for making social protection and cash-based assistance programs more inclusive and effective.