Shelter dynamics in refugee and IDP camps: Customization, permanency, and opportunities

Samar Sabie, Jay Chen, Azza Abouzied, Fatma Hashim, Harleen Kahlon, Steve Easterbrook

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The UNHCR estimates that the average forced displacement period is 17 years, which many refugees and IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) spend entirely in camps. This reality has caused camps to be increasingly considered as permanent cities of our future rather than temporary relief solutions. Unfortunately, this recognition has not been matched by corresponding increases in the planning or resources devoted to camps. In the case of shelter, a basic human need, little to no architectural infrastructure exists and urban planning remains short-Term. As a result, camp dwellers are often forced to take it upon themselves to transform existing humanitarian storage facilities into essential domiciles, markets, and communities. In this paper, we describe our observations and survey results on the state of and practices surrounding shelter from three camps in north Iraq. Our findings illustrate the various modes of shelter that exist due to economic and political expediency, and highlight opportunities for ICTs to improve the quality of life for millions of displaced residents.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationLIMITS 2017 - Proceedings of the 2017 Workshop on Computing Within Limits
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery, Inc
Pages11-20
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9781450349505
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 22 2017
Event3rd Annual Workshop on Computing within Limits, LIMITS 2017 - Santa Barbara, United States
Duration: Jun 22 2017Jun 24 2017

Publication series

NameLIMITS 2017 - Proceedings of the 2017 Workshop on Computing Within Limits

Other

Other3rd Annual Workshop on Computing within Limits, LIMITS 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySanta Barbara
Period6/22/176/24/17

Keywords

  • Empowerment
  • Participatory design
  • Refugees
  • Shelter

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Computer Science

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