The affiliation with socio-structurally defined groups influences individual voting behaviour and contributes to the transformation of party systems. However, sexual identity has so far been inadequately considered as a determinant of voting behaviour in social science research. An increasing number of international studies, however, show that self-identification as lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, or asexual has a significant impact on voting behaviour and political attitudes. Differences between heterosexuals and sexual minorities are particularly shaped by experiences of discrimination, the socialisation process during a coming out, and integration into networks of sexual minorities. Although these studies often speak of a solidarity-based group consciousness among members of sexual minorities, based on a shared sexual identity, this has so far neither been sufficiently conceptualised theoretically nor empirically validated. The aim of the present project is to theoretically and conceptually capture sexual identity and to use empirical modelling to explain voting behaviour and political attitudes. This study will be made possible by collecting a unique dataset, in which at least 1,500 members of sexual minorities and 2,000 heterosexuals will be surveyed. This dataset is unique in its form and enables a systematic investigation of the emergence and implications of group consciousness within an empirically neglected, marginalised minority. In addition to the political attitudes and behaviour of the respondents, the project will also examine the political offerings. This will be done through analyses of election programmes as well as through an analysis of the long-standing positions and demands of intra-party LGBTQ* organisations. In addition, qualitative analyses in the form of expert and target group interviews will be conducted to discuss and validate the indicators developed and used for the project. Furthermore, politicians who publicly identify as part of sexual minorities will be interviewed regarding LGBTQ* advocacy within German parties. Through this project, insights will be gained into the differences between heterosexual and non-heterosexual individuals in general and within specific voter groups. The findings obtained from this research have the potential to fundamentally change the understanding of the relationship between sexuality, sexual identity, and political behaviour.
