Incremental Housing and Shelter in the 21st Century in Jordan

The global refugee crisis has placed immense pressure on housing resources in host countries, particularly in urban areas. One of the most pressing challenges is the lack of adequate and affordable rental housing stock, especially for an increasing number of Syrian refugees. Cities in Northern Jordan, such as Jerash, Ajloun, and Irbid, have been particularly affected by this strain. In response to this challenge, various organizations have implemented innovative housing solutions to address the needs of refugees. One such solution is the Incremental Housing model, which has shown promise in providing sustainable and affordable housing options. This paper examines the post-implementation impact of the Incremental Housing model implemented by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) through its Urban Shelter Program. The NRC’s program provides financial assistance for house expansions and finishing to homeowners in exchange for rent-free accommodation to Syrian refugee families. This approach not only addresses immediate housing needs but also promotes long-term community integration and economic stability.

The influx of Syrian refugees into Northern Jordan has significantly impacted the housing market in cities like Jerash, Ajloun, and Irbid. The lack of adequate and affordable rental housing stock has led to increased competition for limited resources, driving up rents and making it difficult for refugees to secure stable housing. This situation has exacerbated existing housing inequalities and placed additional strain on the already limited capacity of these cities to accommodate new residents. According to a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the number of Syrian refugees in Jordan has continued to grow, putting further pressure on housing and other essential services.

The Incremental Housing model is an innovative approach to addressing housing shortages by allowing homeowners to expand their existing homes incrementally. This model is particularly effective in urban settings where land is scarce and expensive. The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) has implemented this model through its Urban Shelter Program, which provides financial assistance to homeowners for house expansions and finishing. In exchange, these homeowners agree to provide rent-free accommodation to Syrian refugee families. This approach not only helps refugees secure stable housing but also benefits the local community by promoting economic development and fostering social integration.

The NRC’s Urban Shelter Program is designed to support both refugees and local communities by providing sustainable housing solutions. The program offers financial assistance to homeowners for expanding their homes, which includes adding additional rooms, improving infrastructure, and enhancing living conditions. In return, these homeowners agree to provide rent-free accommodation to Syrian refugee families for a specified period. This arrangement not only addresses the immediate housing needs of refugees but also promotes long-term community integration by fostering relationships between refugees and local residents.

The post-implementation impact of the Incremental Housing model has been largely positive. By providing rent-free accommodation to Syrian refugee families, the NRC’s program has significantly improved housing stability for these families. This stability is crucial for refugees, as it allows them to focus on other essential needs such as education, healthcare, and employment. Additionally, the program has fostered community integration by promoting interaction between refugees and local residents. This interaction helps to break down social barriers and build mutual understanding, which is essential for long-term coexistence.

The Incremental Housing model also has positive economic implications for both refugees and local communities. For homeowners, the financial assistance provided by the NRC enables them to expand their homes, which can increase property value and provide additional income through rental opportunities in the future. For refugees, stable housing allows them to contribute more effectively to the local economy by securing employment and participating in community activities. This economic development is crucial for the sustainability of the program and the long-term well-being of both refugees and local residents.

Despite the positive impact of the Incremental Housing model, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main challenges is ensuring the long-term sustainability of the program. This includes securing continued funding and support from international organizations and local governments. Additionally, there is a need to address potential issues related to property rights and legal frameworks, which can impact the implementation of the program. Future research and policy development should focus on these areas to ensure the continued success of the Incremental Housing model.

The Incremental Housing model implemented by the Norwegian Refugee Council’s Urban Shelter Program has shown significant promise in addressing the housing needs of Syrian refugees in Northern Jordan. By providing financial assistance for house expansions and finishing to homeowners in exchange for rent-free accommodation, the program has improved housing stability and promoted community integration. The economic benefits of this approach have also contributed to the long-term sustainability of the program. While there are still challenges to be addressed, the Incremental Housing model offers a valuable solution to the ongoing refugee housing crisis and provides a blueprint for future initiatives in other regions facing similar challenges.