A platform analyzing the latest information and trends in National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) from developing countries.

NAP Trends is supported by a database of information on NAP documents created and maintained by the NAP Global Network Secretariat. It is regularly updated to reflect information from new NAPs submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

This page shares answers to common questions about NAP Trends.

For frequently asked questions about the NAP process, please visit our website.

Have a question? Need help? Write to us at: trends@napglobalnetwork.org

What is the scope of analysis on the NAP Trends platform?

The NAP Trends platform presents data and information based on a review of multi-sector NAP documents from developing countries that have been submitted to the UNFCCC’s NAP Central repository.

Any reference to NAPs within the platform refers to the multi-sector NAP documents that have been submitted to the UNFCCC.

Does NAP Trends include analysis of industrialized (developed) countries?

No, the NAP Trends platform does not currently include analysis of these developed country NAP documents.

The purpose of the NAP Trends platform is to help understand trends in developing country NAPs, recognizing that developing countries face a particular set of circumstances, gaps, and needs with respect to adaptation planning. The NAP Global Network established this platform as part of its broader work to support developing countries in advancing their NAP processes.

As of 2024, the UNFCCC began accepting developed country NAP submissions, which it publishes here.

Which countries are classified as “developing countries”?

Under the UNFCCC, 154 countries are classified as “developing countries,” also known as “Non-Annex I” countries. For more information, see the UNFCCC website.

Are sector-specific NAPs included in the analysis on NAP Trends?

No, we do not include analysis of sector-specific adaptation plans at this time, as this will require a distinct methodology from the approach used to analyze trends in multi-sector NAP documents.

The UNFCCC Secretariat publishes a list of sectoral NAPs and other NAP process outputs that have been submitted by governments on a dedicated page on NAP Central.

Does NAP Trends only analyze the contents of NAP documents?

Yes, NAP Trends currently focuses on the contents of NAP documents submitted to the UNFCCC Central.

As of May 2025, we have begun sharing a non-comprehensive list of NAP process outputs where developing country governments and technical partners have published them. These are available on country pages under “NAPs by Country.”

For example, if a NAP document does not include a MEL framework, it will be marked as “no.” If the country subsequently develops and publishes a MEL framework separate from its NAP document, we will link to the MEL framework in the “NAP process outputs.”

What methodology is used for the analysis that appears on NAP Trends?

The information presented is based on systematic reviews of NAP documents using a combination of word searches and analysis of relevant sections. In order to track the trends, we have systematized the information as much as possible. In some cases, we refer to mentions of a particular term, concept, or instrument—this means that it came up in a word search of the NAP document. In others, we discuss the context of the reference, showing how it is used in the documents. It is important to note that these different options are not mutually exclusive—countries may address a particular issue in more than one way in their NAPs.

Artificial intelligence tools are not currently used as part of the NAP Trends’ analysis methodology.

To request a copy of the NAP Trends review protocol (data entry guide), please contact us at trends@napglobalnetwork.org.

What is the quality assurance process for the information on NAP Trends?

All data and information on NAP Trends have been reviewed for quality assurance by staff from the NAP Global Network Secretariat. All data is supported by textual evidence stored internally by the Network Secretariat.

We aim to adopt a consistent approach across all document reviews; however, because each NAP document has a unique structure and approach to presenting information, there remains some degree of subjectivity in aspects of the analysis and thus some margin of error.

Further, while we endeavour to present the information as accurately as possible, you are encouraged to consult the original NAP documents on NAP Central when precise language or specific details are needed.

Is the data available disaggregated by country?

Yes. To request a copy of NAP Trends data disaggregated by country, please contact us at trends@napglobalnetwork.org.

Any use of this data must be cited and referenced.

How should NAP Trends be cited?

NAP Trends should be cited as follows.

NAP Global Network. (YEAR). NAP Trends. https://trends.napglobalnetwork.org/

Where can I find further information related to NAP processes?

The official definition, objectives, and guidelines of the NAP process are available via the UNFCCC website.

Over 100 countries have approved proposals for adaptation planning support from the Green Climate Fund Readiness Programme, which can be accessed via the GCF website.

A non-exhaustive list of portals sharing further information relevant to NAP processes in developing countries includes the following:

• The UNFCCC Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG) NAP tracking tool provides information on the status of NAP formulation, NAP implementation, and other relevant information on NAP processes.
• The UNFCCC Adaptation Committee’s Interactive Portal on the State of Adaptation Action by Parties provides information on adaptation planning and action from developing and developed countries.