Infrastructure Evolution Analysis via Remote Sensing in an Urban Refugee Camp - Evidence from Za'atari

In this paper, we present a preliminary analysis of infrastructure change in an urban refugee camp. Specifically, we used visible remote satellite imagery from the Za'atari Syrian refugee camp in Jordan to begin to understand how the camp's infrastructure has evolved and changed over time. Our analysis and interpretation of imagery was validated with contextual feedback provided by a refugee living in the camp. We demonstrate how refugees will modify the infrastructure in terms of moving caravan structures closer to important resources such as food and other small markets. We also demonstrate how resources initially given to refugees such as tents become re-used over time for different purposes. The paper concludes with ideas for future remote sensing research of refugee camps and how such research could tie into camp management practice.