The first global overview of basic water and sanitation indicators in refugee camps is presented (using data from 2003–2006) and compared with selected health and nutrition indicators [1]. This demonstrates that average levels of water and sanitation provision are acceptable at camp level, but many refugee operations are suffering from gaps that cross-cut these sectors; e.g. typically poor sanitation provision is corresponding with low per capita availability of water. These findings were confirmed at household level with two household surveys undertaken in African refugee camps; households reporting a case of diarrhoea within the previous 24 hours collect on average 26% less water than those not reporting any cases. The study also underlines the importance that hygiene, environmental conditions and local settings have on health (both of refugees and also local communities).

[1] Cronin, A.A. ... [et al.] (2008). A review of water and sanitation provision in refugee camps in association with selected health and nutrition indicators : the need for integrated service provision. Journal of water and health ; vol. 6, no. 1 ; p. 1–13. doi:10.2166/wh.2007.019

Contact: A. A. Cronin, UNHCR, cronin@unhcr.org

Tags: emergencies, monitoring & evaluation