An exploratory mapping LGBTQ+ research and intervention priorities in Southeast Asia (2025–2035)

Extant literature remains fragmented and does not inclusively represent the lived realities and needs of LGBTQ+ populations in Southeast Asia. This study aimed to identify LGBTQ+ research and intervention priorities in this region through an anonymous survey with researchers, community workers, and advocates conducted from May to August 2025 (N = 142). Participants represented 11 Southeast Asian countries, with the highest proportions from the Philippines (30.3%), Malaysia (28.9%), Thailand (19.7%), Vietnam (16.9%), and Singapore (12.7%). Participants rated 14 issues affecting LGBTQ+ communities using a three-point importance scale and identified their top priority concern. The results revealed that mental health issues and suicidality (81.0%), training health professionals about LGBTQ+ health (78.9%), and HIV/AIDS (70.9%) were most frequently rated as ‘very important’ regional priorities. Community workers were more likely to prioritise mental health, police mistreatment, and employment issues. When prompted to select one issue as the most urgent to address, participants equally prioritised criminalising laws and mental health issues (20.0% respectively) . Country-specific primary priorities varied significantly criminalising laws (Malaysia), mental health (Singapore and Thailand), health professional training (the Philippines), and marriage rights (Vietnam). These findings provide a preliminary framework for developing LGBTQ+ research and intervention agendas across Southeast Asia, both at the regional and country levels.