Application of multidimensional criteria to design refugee camps: A case study of Al Baqa'a camp, Jordan

Abstract

Humanistic needs of refugees are rarely acknowledged in the initial designs of refugee camps. Many camps evolve to become more than a simple temporary solution with generations of refugees spending many years in them. During this time, refugees experience multiple humanistic needs, such as social and cultural adequacy, belonging, sustainability, community integration, home adaptation and improved access to essential services. Considering these complex conceptualisations, a multidimensional approach to the design of refugee camps is needed in terms of urban planning development. In this perspective, the paper employs the case study of Baqa'a camp in Jordan to explore the use of integrated criteria specifications as a solution for capturing the multidimensional elements of refugees’ higher-level needs and their impact on urban planning development. Findings propose criteria based on the refugees’ needs. The criteria were formulated from literature based on human needs theories, international refugee studies and reports from humanitarian organisations and developed through fieldwork and observation in Baqa'a camp community. The outputs demonstrate how shelter requirements and urban organisation by NGOs, often based on time management, logistics and costs, differ from standards and criteria that address the humanistic needs and desires of people. With these assumptions, a multidimensional approach to meeting the needs of refugees living in warm and dry climates is proposed to support the multi-transitional levels of shelter and socio-spatial urban organisation and evolution taking place in refugee camps.