Sustainable Refugee Camp Design in the Dalhamyie Settlement

In the picturesque valleys of Bekaa, Lebanon, the Dalhamyie refugee settlement stands as a testament to the challenges and opportunities inherent in providing safe refuge for the displaced. The complexities of the refugee situation are multifaceted, with individuals stemming from diverse reasons – from those escaping political conflicts, the internally displaced due to climate change or natural disasters, to circulated people seeking temporary asylum before returning to their homeland. Unfortunately, many refugees, regardless of their initial reasons for displacement, find themselves settling long-term in these camps, even after the primary conflict in their homeland has subsided. Thus, arises the fundamental question – are these camps designed to be temporary shelters or permanent homes?

Recognizing the dynamic nature of refugee needs, it is crucial to adopt a "flexible strategy approach" when designing these settlements. This method acknowledges the transient nature of some inhabitants while also accounting for those who might never return to their homelands. The uncertainty of the refugee's future is undeniable. Even if they successfully repatriate, they face potential challenges like loss of identification, hindering their access to essential services like education, healthcare, and employment.

In light of these multifaceted challenges, the primary objectives of modern emergency camps should be twofold. Firstly, they must cater to fundamental human needs, ensuring that every inhabitant has access to shelter, food, water, and essential services. Secondly, given the volume of refugees, these camps must be designed to address quantitative challenges, ensuring that they can accommodate a large influx of people without compromising on the quality of life.

However, merely meeting these objectives is not enough. The structural and spatial planning of these camps demands thorough consideration. The often temporary nature of these shelters inadvertently transforms into permanent settlements, leading to additional challenges. These camps, originally designed as short-term solutions, become vulnerable to environmental pressures and conflicts. Moreover, they often lack adequate services and facilities, which further increases the vulnerability of its inhabitants to climatic and environmental extremities.

In conclusion, the Dalhamyie settlement, like many other refugee camps, highlights the urgent need for sustainable, flexible, and resilient design strategies. These designs must consider not only the immediate needs of the refugees but also potential long-term challenges, ensuring that even in the face of adversity, these settlements remain safe, habitable, and humane.