Gender-Responsive Approaches in Post-Disaster Temporary Settlement Planning: Insights from Malatya and Adıyaman

Abstract

The earthquakes that struck southeastern Türkiye on February 6, 2023, caused massive destruction and displaced thousands to temporary shelters. This study examines the applicability of the UN Women Turkey Gender-Responsive Settlement Model (GRSM) in the cities of Adıyaman and Malatya. Using a GRSM-based checklist, the research evaluates temporary shelter areas and identifies the need for modifying the criteria to allow for more nuanced, scalable assessments. Data were collected through online surveys, field observations, unstructured interviews, and an expert workshop. Content analysis of the findings supports the development of locally adaptable, gender-sensitive settlement design principles. Addressing safety, accessibility, services, participation, and economic opportunity, the GRSM aims to guide local authorities in sustainable, inclusive post-disaster planning.