Assessing adaptation targets and indicators in Austria: A multi-level policy document analysis

Monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) are increasingly recognized as essential components of effective climate change adaptation governance. In the Austrian context, systematic approaches to assess adaptation progress and outcomes remain at an early stage. This study investigates how adaptation targets and related indicators are currently documented across three governance levels—regional, federal state, and national—by analysing publicly available adaptation plans and strategies. 

Using a systematic coding framework and qualitative policy document analysis, we examine the level of detail in stated adaptation goals, ranging from broad strategic visions to concrete, measurable targets. The coding process further captures whether plans specify corresponding indicators or metrics that enable monitoring and verification of progress toward these goals. Indicators identified in the documents are subsequently classified along six dimensions— human capital, institutional adaptive capacity, economic, social, environmental and political improvements—to assess the comprehensiveness and balance of the indicator landscape. The assessment also differentiates between the 14 sectors addressed by the Austrian Adaptation Strategy, such as agriculture, health, and infrastructure, allowing cross-sectoral comparisons in the formulation and operationalization of adaptation objectives. Preliminary results indicate that while most documents articulate clear sectoral priorities and qualitative objectives, measurable targets and systematically defined indicators remain limited and unevenly distributed across governance levels and sectors. The analysis reveals a stronger emphasis on environmental and technical dimensions, whereas social and institutional aspects are addressed less consistently. 

This research provides an empirical overview of current adaptation planning and monitoring practices in Austria. By identifying existing strengths and gaps, it contributes to ongoing efforts to design a coherent and integrated MEL system tailored to national and subnational governance contexts. The findings also offer insights into how existing adaptation policies can evolve toward more outcome-oriented and learning-driven frameworks, supporting continuous improvement in climate resilience planning and reporting.