Hej!
In 2023, the need for temporary homes due to humanitarian emergencies was greater than ever. The year was characterised by two significant challenges: the Türkiye-Syria earthquakes and the conflict in Sudan. The earthquakes tragically claimed 55,000 lives and displaced millions, while the Sudanese conflict has uprooted 9.2 million people, making it the world’s biggest humanitarian crisis. Our fast response was made possible through working together with our partners. Together, we were able to provide safe and dignified shelter to thousands in need. Our humanitarian partners, private sector allies, and philanthropic supporters all played crucial roles.
Experience has taught us that these types of emergencies last long, demanding that our commitment continue. We still support Türkiye and Sudan with new shelters and technical assistance, ensuring our humanitarian partners and affected communities receive sustained support even as initial emergency funds wane. This is also true of the situations in Venezuela and Syria, which we are continuously responding to. In parallel, we are preparing for the response in Gaza by increasing our emergency stockpile and securing the right partners to ensure an impactful response. As we hope for an end to this tragedy, we stand ready to support.
We recognise climate change as a key driver of displacement, and we are dedicated to reducing our CO2 footprint to meet the targets of the Paris Agreement. Our focus includes minimising the use of plastics and fossil fuel-based materials through collaboration with our partners. However, our commitment goes beyond materials; we strive to enhance the longevity and functionality of our shelters.
Adopting a cradle-to-gate approach, we aim to facilitate easier repairs, maintenance and upgrades, ensuring that our shelters serve their purpose over the entire duration of displacement (which many times span more than a decade). We’re also working with partners to improve reuse, repurpose, and recycling locally, aspiring to achieve a circular shelter model by 2030. We are also working to make our shelters more accessible for people with disabilities and reduced mobility.
Better Shelter reaffirms its unwavering dedication to the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact in Human Rights, Labour, Environment, and Anti-Corruption. This annual report highlights our ongoing efforts to integrate these principles into our business strategy, culture, and operations, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring our commitment to our ethical and responsible practices. Together, we make a lasting impact—providing shelter and a foundation for resilience and hope. Thank you for your continued support, which helps us provide safety, dignity, and hope to displaced communities.
Managing Director, Better Shelter
From our Global compact communication on progress: January 1 to December 31, 2023
