ABSTRACT
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, distancing requirements reduced the legitimacy of less conventional intimate arrangements. Based on survey and interview data, the chapter provides an overview of how intimate transformations in Austria and Germany unfolded over time. In the early stages of the pandemic, moralisation of sexual contacts led to concealment and a withdrawal from casual sex partners and polyamorous arrangements. Qualitative data provide insights into uneven effects such as the increasing importance of self-care and intimacy in couple relationships. As the pandemic progressed, singles adapted their dating behaviour and found creative ways to foster sexual intimacy. Yet, public settings provided opportunities to expand dating efforts, mostly for men. For women and LGBTIQA+ individuals, there were few safe spaces for intimacy. Similar to other pandemics, mitigation imposed an additional stressor on already marginalised populations. Acknowledging that the unintended side effects of policies are part of the everyday experiences of minorities supports the solidary transformation of societies that is necessary during and after a global health crisis. Future pandemic management should seek to learn the lessons from this – and aim instead to provide solutions that engage with varying interests and needs, and which are available to all.
