Thousands of Rohingya families in Cox’s Bazar continue to face severe risks from monsoon rains, strong winds, flooding, fires and landslides. This year, more than 5,500 shelters across the camps were damaged by extreme weather, highlighting the urgent need for safer and more resilient housing.
However, Temporary Safer Shelters supported by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies withstood the recent monsoon conditions without significant damage. The stronger structures offer an important example of how improved shelter design can protect vulnerable communities living in one of the world’s largest refugee settlements.
More than one million Rohingya people remain in Bangladesh after fleeing violence and displacement from Myanmar. With safe returns still uncertain, durable and dignified shelter remains a critical humanitarian priority nearly nine years after the mass displacement began.
The Temporary Safer Shelter model was developed following repeated disasters in the camps, including major fires that destroyed thousands of shelters. Traditional bamboo structures often require frequent repairs and remain vulnerable to extreme weather and other hazards.
The improved shelter design was developed by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society and IFRC with partners and approved by the Shelter Cluster and Government of Bangladesh in September 2025. So far, 280 Temporary Safer Shelters have been constructed.
The shelters continue to use familiar, locally available materials, including bamboo reinforced with cement, rice straw and clay. This approach improves durability while keeping construction practical within the camp environment.
Community participation is also central to the programme. Residents work alongside trained community members to construct their shelters and receive payment for their contributions. This helps families develop skills to maintain their homes while encouraging greater ownership and participation in the process.
Although limited funding means that only a small number of safer shelters have been constructed so far, humanitarian partners are prioritizing families living in the most vulnerable conditions.
The recent monsoon season has demonstrated the potential of the Temporary Safer Shelter approach to provide stronger protection against harsh weather. For families such as Bashir Ahmod and Rabeya Basri, the improved shelter offers more than physical protection—it provides a greater sense of safety, dignity and security in an uncertain environment.
As the Rohingya crisis continues, investment in safer shelter solutions can help families withstand recurring disasters while supporting their ability to live with greater resilience and hope.
