Sheltering the Displaced: Lessons from Global Disasters and Conflicts

Housing and shelter solutions play a crucial role in disaster recovery, yet many displaced communities face prolonged instability due to inadequate policies and poorly integrated temporary housing. This paper explores global approaches to post-disaster housing, analysing both short-term shelter solutions and long-term integration strategies. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study employs bibliometric analysis to identify research trends and gaps in disaster housing literature alongside a comprehensive literature review of past policies and interventions. Findings highlight the socio-economic and psychological impacts of displacement, the limitations of emergency shelters, and the challenges of transitioning temporary housing into permanent settlements. Case studies from major disasters, including Hurricane Katrina, the Haiti earthquake, and the Syrian refugee crisis, offer insights into both successful and problematic housing recovery efforts. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for governments and humanitarian organisations, emphasising the need for resilient, community-driven, and sustainable housing solutions. By synthesising existing research and lessons from past disasters, this study aims to contribute to ongoing discussions on improving post-disaster housing strategies.