Ethical Considerations for Living in Temporary Shelters (i.e., camps) Following a Natural Disaster

Abstract

Background: Some disasters, such as earthquake and flood make the majority of affected people homeless. The<br />accommodation of these people in temporary shelters and camps requires some specific ethical issues. The aim of the<br />present study was to discuss ethical issues regarding living in camps following natural disasters.<br />Methods: This study is conducted utilizinga qualitative content analysis approach. The required data were collected<br />from four Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Subsequently, 11 in-depth interviews were completed using the individuals<br />who had the experience of receiving care following natural disasters and continued until data saturation. Data were<br />analyzed using Graham content analysis method.<br />Results: According to the results obtained from affected people's views, the most important ethical issues that are not<br />considered important in temporary shelters and camps include:1) the violation of privacy,2) the shortage of basic needs<br />(e.g., food, water, and sanitation) and type and quality of services rendered,3) lack of attention to cultural and religious<br />views of the affected people, 4) cause of evacuation, 5)lack of co-operation among disaster managers, 6)respecting the<br />properties of the affected people, 7)conditions and geographic location of camps, 8)property care, and 9)communitybased<br />care.<br />Conclusion: Without paying attention to ethical issues, living in temporary shelters (i.e., camps) violates the dignity of<br />affected people and then the affected people will not have appropriate cooperation with the managers. All these issues<br />expose them to more harm than before.<br />Level of evidence: VI