More specifically, it shows that they are locked in a vicious cycle, whereby initial socioeconomic inequalities determine the disproportionate adverse effects arising from climate hazards, which in turn results in greater inequality. This discussion is followed by a thorough review of the evidence demonstrating that the multiple dimensions of inequality (as they relate, inter alia, to income, assets, political power, gender, age, race and ethnicity) underlie a situation where disadvantaged groups are more exposed and susceptible to climate hazards and possess less capacity to cope and recover when those hazards have materialized. Further, it is shown that as a result, inequality is exacerbated.