Evolution of Temporary Sheltering Practices in Iran: A Comparative Analysis of the Bam, Varzaghan, and Sarpol-e-Zahab Earthquakes

During the past 21 years, changes in the design, site selection, distribution, and decommissioning of temporary shelters after earthquakes in Iran have affected assistance efficiency and quality. However, these changes lack systematic analysis, leading to recurring challenges. A comparative analysis of the Bam (2003), Varzaghan (2012), and Sarpol-e-Zahab (2017) earthquakes examined the evolution of temporary shelter practices. Data were gathered through structured and semistructured interviews, field visits, and document analysis. The data were categorized and analyzed using thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework using ATLAS.ti version 9.0 software. This study identified recurring challenges in shelter design, site selection, and distribution across the three earthquakes. Postdisaster responses were generally reactive, with inadequate predisaster planning and poor coordination among agencies. Site selection often ignored spatial, legal, and environmental criteria, while nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) filled gaps inconsistently. These issues resulted in delays, inequitable access, and problematic decommissioning. Iran should implement proactive predisaster planning with standardized frameworks, integrate all shelter phases into a cohesive system, ensure strong coordination between governmental agencies and NGOs, and establish monitoring mechanisms to track shelter quality and lifecycle management, which will enhance temporary shelter outcomes. This study redefines temporary shelter as a systemic, evolving process rather than a short-term emergency task. By combining archival and field data, this study reveals patterns often overlooked in policy and practice.