Temporary settlements for Venezuelan refugees

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the temporary settlements set up for Venezuelan refugees in the city of Boa Vista-RR, Brazil, to propose guidelines for these facilities. The methodology uses multiple exploratory case studies with a qualitative approach. The research is based on a comparative analysis between data collected during field research, conducted in 2018, and the main guidelines for temporary settlements from national and international literature. It examines the physical-spatial and functional characteristics of settlements, such as layout, facilities, services and infrastructure. The results show the structure of the settlements and its organization, as well as routine activities, such as security actions, food distribution, healthcare, provision of household items and other services. Universal accessibility, psychosocial care, privacy, cultural adequacy and awareness actions are essential to enhance quality of life in settlements. Improvements need to be made over time to promote urbanization, spatial appropriation, and encourage community empowerment. The findings help to consolidate a reference framework of guidelines for decision-making regarding temporary settlements for disaster scenarios.

Keywords

• Complex emergency
• Disaster
• Field research
• Homeless
• Humanitarian Aid