1 Introduction

By May 2022, the number of forcibly displaced people around the world had reached 100 million, an increase of 10.7 million displaced people compared to the end of 2021 [1]. “Displacement is a complex issue if not dealt with properly” [2]. Especially in the Middle East region, as the number of internally displaced people has increased dramatically, the need for sustainable housing has increased. Millions of Syrians were displaced from northern Syria to the Syrian-Turkish border as a result of the ongoing conflict. The number of displaced people reached 2.7 million, including approximately one million people newly displaced between January and February 2021 [3]. Displacement into a shrinking territory has increased over recent years. This has reduced housing options and housing stock in urban areas. According to the Humanitarian Needs Assessment Program, more than half of all IDPs in North-West Syria live in inadequate housing. Moreover, 42% of the IDPs live in damaged and unfinished buildings, 27% live in tents, and 8% live in damaged shelters.49% reported cold and damp conditions in their shelter as a primary issue [4]. As housing is becoming increasingly difficult to find and many households cannot afford to pay rent, a growing number of people have had to settle in camps or informal settlements. According to the camp coordination and management group, there are 197 million people in north-west Syria living in IDP settlements and reception centers [5]. In addition to the large numbers that were affected by the earthquake that occurred on 2/6/2023 in Turkey, which is close to Syria, the most affected areas include Aleppo Governorate, where 4.2 million people have been affected to varying degrees. Almost 3 million people in Idleb Governorate have also been affected. More than 1700 buildings have been completely destroyed, and more than 5700 buildings have been partially destroyed [6]. In addition, there is the ongoing deportation of Syrian refugees from Turkey through what is called self-return; the numbers reached 600,000. The Turkish government has pledged to return one million refugees in the coming years [7]. Non-governmental organizations played an important role in securing the temporary camps. With the increase in need, the lengthening of the stay, and the poor humanitarian conditions in the temporary camps, non-governmental organizations have turned to creating dignified housing to address the problem. However, due to the multiplicity of organizations and their policies, the lack of coordination between them, and the absence of the concept of sustainability in their work, this led to chaos in the shelter sector. Many problems have emerged, the most important of which is the lack of application of the principles of sustainable development in housing. “Although the 1951 UN Refugee Convention declared that shelter is a human right, the vast majority of shelter designs are largely off-topic” [8]. Although most NGOs are funded by United Nations organizations, which have put forward the Sustainable Development Goals, the result was an encroachment on the limited agricultural lands, cutting down olive trees, building unsustainable housing that was unsuitable for its residents, a lack of interest in sustainable local materials, a failure to consider the cultural customs of the region wastage of water, a failure to treat sewage, etc. All of the above have increased the need for sustainable housing.

This paper aims to set basic points for developing sustainable housing policy frameworks to be applied to shelter projects and to serve as an introductory guide for the work of non-governmental organizations, bodies, and those interested in improving shelter conditions, preserving the few remaining natural resources in the region, and supporting the application of the concept of sustainability.

The importance of this paper is it that focuses on sustainable shelter for displaced people, the results of which can be applied in similar regions around the world and post-war reconstruction projects in Syria.

2 Definitions

2.1 Shelter

The definition of shelter appeared in the 1992 Multilingual Human Settlements Glossary: “Adequate shelter: means an environment suitable for all aspects of family life, providing protection, security of tenure, personal safety, access to clean water and sanitation, and proximity to workplaces, education, and health care facilities” [9]. Corsellis and Vitalle defined a shelter as “a habitable covered living space that provides a safe and healthy living environment with privacy and dignity for those inside” [10]. The Global Protection Cluster Working Group states that “when humanitarian organizations refer to shelter, they mean a habitable and covered living space, providing a safe and healthy living environment with privacy and dignity” [11]. The United Nations Disaster Relief Organization has proposed eight phases of shelter provision: imported tents and modules, standard designs incorporating indigenous materials, temporary housing, material distribution, basic housing, hazard-resistant housing, accelerated permanent reconstruction, and housing [12]. Quarantelli proposed a different classification of shelters based on the life span of shelters and people's behavior, which included four stages: emergency shelter, temporary housing, temporary housing, and permanent housing [13].

2.2 Housing policy

Abdel Karim defined “housing policy as the criteria and standards set by the state to control the mechanisms of the housing market” [14]. Its aim is also to establish means and mechanisms for intervention in the residential market and ensure the general balance between supply and demand while respecting the specified price and quantity standards.” [15]. Clapham described housing policy as “an action taken by any government or any governmental body to effectuate the housing process” [16]. And also “concerning production, consumption, management and maintenance of the housing stock” [17]. Jamila described housing policy as the measures and procedures taken by local authorities to reconstruct neighborhoods, through development projects within a planning and legislative system [18]. Angel explained housing policy “as measures by which the quality, quantity, price, control, and ownership of housing can be adjusted [19]. Mandelker and Montgomery described housing as both a process and a product [20]. “Adequate housing has economic, social, and cultural rights that must be available” [21].

2.3 Sustainable development and housing policies

Sustainable development means meeting “the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” [22]. However, “the concept is a more complex topic to apply in practice than this simple definition suggests.” [23]. The issue of integrating housing policies into comprehensive development plans is the most important axis on the global and local agenda, for reasons related to the large difference between population numbers and the emergence of challenges such as determining cultural identity and confusion in the social fabric. Tosics argues “One sectoral policy of great importance for sustainable development is housing, without which no concept of sustainable development can succeed [24]. John defined sustainable housing as: “housing practices that strive to achieve integrated quality, including economic, social and environmental performance” [25]. Housing is pivotal to sustainable development” [26]. According to Henilane, “the complex web of interrelationships between sustainability, and housing is addressed through sustainable housing policies that are environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable” [27]. Housing must be comfortable, economical, maintainable, architecturally expressive, and environmentally compatible. This can only be achieved through “sustainable housing policies” [27]. Tosics also emphasized that “sustainability has economic, environmental, and social aspects. Any concept of sustainable urban development must be based on comprehensive policies related to governance, finance, taxation, and regional and urban development” [24]. Harris argues that sustainable development seeks to reconcile environmental, economic, and social development [28]. Rowan adds to the three dimensions of environmental, social, and economic and governance [29]. Golubchikov and Badyina stated that the purpose of the National Sustainable Housing Strategy is to create an integrated policy framework to guide the country in developing a sustainable housing sector [26].

3 Literature review

In a study by Jabo et al., they recommended the formation of a national housing council, whose mission is to develop a national housing policy, monitor its implementation, support the housing sector through subsidies and tax reductions, and facilitate the import process of construction materials required for housing. [30]. Abdullah and Dodin also recommended providing suitable land for construction and connecting it to services, paying attention to the issue of financing, reforming and modernizing the legal and regulatory framework for the housing sector, and updating and expanding structural plans to achieve sustainable population centers. and Developing the administrative and technical capabilities of all parties, encouraging the local construction materials industry, developing environmentally friendly building technologies, creating an information base for the housing sector, granting local authorities greater powers in formulating housing policies, and strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors [31]. In the topical guide to UN-Habitats in Jordan, it was recommended to create a comprehensive national housing profile and develop an institutional, regulatory, and legal framework to support the implementation of the national housing policy. Participation of stakeholders in the housing sector, collecting and analyzing housing data, formulating, updating, and sharing it in a transparent manner, securing suitable lands for housing, and updating building systems and laws [32]. Also, “housing policies must understand the relationship between family and housing and that it will provide the establishment of a human need only and must respond to their needs in the appropriate environment within the framework of customs and traditions that regulate their lives. [33]. The Asian Bank Institute focused on “the need for strong legislation and sound governance of housing agencies and financial institutions, establishing an integrated framework for land and mortgage financing, and increasing market transparency by providing required information and providing housing subsidies.” [34]. Al-Moselhy emphasized the role of the state in the housing sector, amending laws and regulations, and fair distribution of housing to needy groups. It stressed the importance of the role of the private sector in solving the housing problem [35]. The right to adequate housing must be respected in housing policies and programs, and the beneficiaries' participation must be practical. There is a need to conduct studies after housing operations to know the effects and results of housing policies. Exempting people with limited income from taxes. Government participation in housing projects and encouraging the private sector to invest [36]. Hamed recommended, “monitoring the real estate market, providing guidance to support housing for the poor, and establishing a body that regulates housing to ensure sustainability of benefit, security of tenure, and fair distribution.” [37]. Naamon recommended the implementation of serious housing policies with economic and human dimensions, a sustainable environment, and private sector participation [38]. Drish advised on a clear housing policy and supporting self-build programs by granting financial subsidies and providing the necessary materials for construction at reasonable prices [15]. In a study (to activate an integrated strategy to develop policies), Abdel Hamid, emphasized inventorying all land suitable for construction and providing it with facilities, creating modern financing systems for the housing and infrastructure sector. Supporting the participation of the private sector in the housing development process, developing the investment law. Organizing rehabilitation programs for the sectors. and Technical assistance in constructing, managing, and maintaining housing projects and establishing an assistance fund for housing poor groups. Motivating civil society organizations to contribute to financing affordable housing programs. Establishing an updated database on the housing situation and evaluating policies. Working to develop training programs for those responsible for implementing housing plans and programs. Developing research. Scientific research and benefiting from the experiences of other countries in dealing with the housing problem, establishing specialized courts, amending regulatory plans, and developing infrastructure [39]. Al-Hamawandi, et al. recommended preparing a national housing policy, strengthening housing financing and land management, updating legislative and regulatory laws, encouraging partnerships between the public and private sectors, community participation, institutional reform, and developing workers’ capabilities [40].

4 Methodology

The research methodology consists of five basic axes that were relied upon to find basic points for housing policy for shelter, according to Figure 1.

Fig.1
figure 1

shows the methodology diagram

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To learn about the opinions of specialists in the housing and shelter sector in developing a sustainable housing policy that can be applied to shelter projects. Quantitative data was used through an opinion poll designed by summarizing the necessary information from a review of previous studies and others. A questionnaire was according to a five-point Likert scale. It was converted into a digital questionnaire using the Kobo Toolbox application. “It is a platform for collecting field data in difficult environments. It is a free and open-source program that works both online and offline. Most of its users are people working in humanitarian crisis areas and specializing in the field of relief.” It was developed by a joint initiative between the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the Harvard Initiative, and the International Rescue Committee [41]. The questionnaire consists of the following sections:

The first section is a brief introduction about the researchers, the name of the researchers, the reason and purpose of the questionnaire, and an invitation to participate.

The second section consists of questions that express the goal of the research along these axises 1.the factors that help in implementing sustainable housing policies for shelters. 2.the results of implementing sustainable housing policies in shelters 0.3. Factors that influenced the success of previous shelter housing policies.4. Evaluating the implementation of sustainable housing policies in shelters 0.5. goals of implementing sustainable housing in shelters.

4.1 Identify samples

To identify the most appropriate cases, individuals, or communities to help answer the research question, to avoid samples that do not have information about the research topic, use purposive samples. The study sample was selected from the groups most interested in the subject of the study, which are four categories within the study area:

  • Specialists in the organizations’ housing and shelter department, which is the largest and most active department.

  • Researchers and academics at the university specialized in housing.

  • Housing and shelter officials at the Housing Administration.

  • Engineers at the Engineers Syndicate are interested in housing.

Many visits were made, including to the Humanitarian Coordination Office (to identify organizations working in the housing and shelter sector and obtain their official IDs), to the Housing Administration and the Engineers Syndicate in Aleppo and Idlib, in addition to the university (Department of Postgraduate Studies). Through the visits, contact was made with Specialists who are interested in housing. They were introduced to the study and its objectives and invited to participate in it. Many of them expressed their desire to participate, and some apologized.

4.2 Validity of the research tool

4.2.1 Validity of the scale

4.2.1.1 Content validity

A group of 10 participants were interviewed to check the content validity of the scale. This group varied in age, educational level, gender, and experience. The goal was to show their observations of the suitability of the items to the general goal and sub-goals of the scale, the suitability of the items to what they were designed to measure, the extent and clarity of the instructions in terms of meaning and language, and the extent to which the items cover the areas studied. They noted observations of the lack of clarity of some questions, and it was also suggested to shorten the length of the questionnaire, provide explanations for some questions, and reformulate some phrases. The questionnaire was then reformulated, considering the feedback.

4.2.1.2 Virtual validity

The scale was applied to a survey sample of 23 specialists, which is not included in the basic study sample. The aim of this study was to ensure the suitability of the scale items, the clarity of the statements for the survey sample members, and the extent to which it is apparent that the items include the concept they were designed to measure, as well as to complete a validity study. The scale and its statistical stability. When answering the scale's items, members of the survey sample were asked to inquire about each item that they found difficult or ambiguous to understand or answer.

4.2.2 B-Scale stability

  • Internal consistency stability using Cronbach's alpha equation: The internal consistency coefficient was calculated using Cronbach's alpha equation for the scores of the same survey sample on the scale, and Table 1 shows the results of the reliability coefficients using this method.

  • Split-half reliability: The split-half reliability coefficient of the scale was extracted for the scores of the same survey sample using the Sipperman-Brown equation, as shown in Table 1.

Table 1 Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients and split-half for the total score of the scale and its subdomains
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4.3 Circulate the questionnaire

After ensuring the validity of the study tool and identifying the participants, the questionnaire link was circulated to the groups for each category by their supervisors, with an explanation of the questionnaire and its purpose, while urging the need to participate in it. 100 responses were obtained, after which the link was stopped for data analysis.

4.4 Data processing and statistical analysis

After responses to the questionnaire were received, responses were edited to ensure completeness, consistency, and readability. Quantitative data from the questionnaires was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). This is because SPSS is the best easy-to-use application for beginners and professional users. It is also considered one of the most important statistical programs suitable for such research.

5 Results

It is clear from Table 2, which shows the arithmetic averages of the questionnaire’s axes and their overall score, that the general average of the sample members’ answers to the questionnaire was 3.9, with a relative weight of 79%. This expresses a high level of importance compared to the five-point Likert scale. The questionnaire axes were arranged in order of importance: from Evaluating the implementation of sustainable housing policies in shelters, then the results of implementing sustainable housing policies in shelters, then the factors helping to build a sustainable housing policy for shelters, followed by the sustainable housing goals in shelter, and finally the factors that influenced the success of previous shelter housing policies (Table 3).

Table 2 Arithmetic averages for the questionnaire’s axes and its total score
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Table 3 Estimating the mean values for the five-point Likert scale
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Table 4 shows the sample members’ responses to the axis of evaluating the implementation of sustainable housing policies in shelters. That came in first place as the most important axis of the questionnaire. There was a very high level of importance, as the general average of the sample members’ responses to this axis reached 4.2, with a relative weight of 84%. This expresses a very high level of importance when compared to a five-point scale. The average value of the sample members’ responses to the axis statements ranged between 4.9 as the highest value and 3.3 as the minimum value. This is consistent with the recommendations of [42] on the necessity of monitoring housing policies and with the recommendations of [32], which added evaluation to monitoring. The responses received for the questionnaire statements (1–5) exhibited a remarkably high level of agreement, which highlights the significance of formulating sustainable housing policies while simultaneously developing and updating laws. Additionally, it underscores the importance of supporting and promoting scientific research in the realm of housing, as well as the local building materials industry, to enhance sustainability. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity of implementing training programs that aim to enhance the skills and capabilities of workers within this sector. The expressions (6–9) also demonstrated a high level of agreement, which serves to confirm the imperative need for governance in the sustainability process. This can be achieved by fostering a greater awareness of the importance of sustainability among stakeholders within the shelter sector. Furthermore, it necessitates increased cooperation and coordination between local and international partners to identify and implement effective solutions to the housing predicament. Moreover, it emphasizes the urgency of combating corruption while concurrently recognizing the sensitivity of this sector, which heavily relies on external support. Statement (10) was found to be at a moderate level, as the housing sector is characterized by its free-market nature and the involvement of banks in housing financing is limited and not particularly effective.

Table 4 Evaluating the implementation of sustainable housing policies in shelters
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It is clear from Table 5 which shows the responses of the sample members on the axis of the results of implementing sustainable housing policies in shelters, that there is a high level of importance, as the general average of the responses of the sample members on this axis reached 4.12, with a relative weight of 82.4%. This expresses a high level of importance when compared to a scale of five points, while the average values of the sample members’ responses on the phrases of the second axis ranged from 4.9 as the highest response to 3.5 as the lowest response. Responses to the axis reveal that all of its expressions were highly significant, demonstrating the significance of the axis and its expressions. These expressions emphasized the need for a sustainable national strategy for shelter and encouraged the application of sustainability to preserve the environment and produce sustainable housing, which in turn helps to ensure justice and develop solutions for those in need. The importance of the relationship between the home and the family is recognized by social and equitable distribution. elevating the poor's standard of living and upholding their entitlement to sufficient housing. The local economy has benefited from the implementation of sustainability.

Table 5 Results of implementing sustainable housing policies in shelters
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Table 6 which shows the responses of the sample members on the axis of the factors that help in building a sustainable housing policy for shelters from the questionnaire, that there is a high level of importance, as the general average of the responses of the sample members on this axis reached 4.00, with a relative weight of 80%, and this expresses a high level of importance when compared to a criterion On a five-point scale, the average values of the sample members’ responses to the second axis statements ranged between 4.8 as the highest average and 3.2 as the lowest average. The identification of factors that contribute to the establishment of a sustainable housing policy for shelters is of utmost importance. The responses received from individuals expressed a high level of importance in this matter and confirmed the necessity of a public authority dedicated to managing the shelter sector and formulating appropriate policies. To achieve sustainability, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the concept and its various dimensions, which can be facilitated by implementing robust legislation. Another essential aspect is the transparent sharing and updating of private data, which can be achieved through a well-defined plan that allocates responsibilities among stakeholders involved in housing projects for shelters. Moreover, the availability of land and building materials should be ensured in a manner that aligns with environmental preservation and does not cause harm to natural resources. Additionally, efforts should be made to reduce the financial burden associated with housing by eliminating taxes and fees, while also encouraging housing associations to contribute towards financing affordable housing programs. Lastly, it is imperative to implement effective measures to monitor and control the real estate market.

Table 6 Factors helping to build a sustainable housing policy for shelters
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Table 7 shows the responses of the sample members on the axis of sustainable housing goals in shelter. There was a high level of importance, as the general average of the sample members’ responses on this axis reached 3.59, with a relative weight of 76.6%. This expresses a high level of importance when compared to a five-point scale. The averages of the sample members’ responses on this axis ranged between 4.6 as the highest value and 2.9 as the lowest value. In fourth place came the goals of sustainable housing for shelter, and through the order of importance, we note that the goals of sustainable housing were focused on giving importance to energy efficiency, user comfort, and water use efficiency, achieving functional efficiency, and reducing the consumption of natural resources, recycling waste and using environmentally friendly building materials and technology. While free or affordable shelter, considering social customs and traditions, providing cultural continuity, making shelters able to withstand disasters and climate, and properly integrating shelters into the social fabric, the dimension comes in the middle rank.

Table 7 Sustainable housing goals in shelter
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It is clear from Table 8 which shows the responses of the sample members on the axis of Factors that influenced the success of previous shelter housing policies, to a high level of importance, as the general average of the responses of the sample members on this axis reached 3.59, with a relative weight of 71.8%, and this expresses a high level of importance compared to Using a five-point scale, while the average responses of the sample members to the fourth axis statements ranged between 4.8 as the highest value and 1.8 as the lowest value. The responses identified the factors that influenced the success of previous shelter housing policies as the lack of international support, the absence of laws and regulations regulating work in the shelter sector, the lack of training programs for those responsible for implementing shelter plans and programs, and the weakness of local capabilities to implement good quality shelter projects. Delay in providing suitable land for construction, registering it, linking it to infrastructure services, and approving the city’s regulatory plans to enter lands outside the regulatory plan and invest them in housing projects. With the difficulty of accessing the information necessary to develop shelter projects. Added to this is the absence of laws that allow the investment of public sector lands in housing projects and the lack of post-housing studies to determine the effects and results of housing policies.

Table 8 Factors that influenced the success of previous shelter housing policies
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6 Discussion

6.1 Evaluating the implementation of sustainable housing policies in shelters

As the most important axes of the questionnaire, this indicates the importance of thinking about how to implement the established policies to make them successful, because setting a model policy that is not applicable is unfortunate and is one of the major problems that occur in many countries when the law is separated from reality or the method of its implementation is absent. This is consistent with a study [31] that focuses on the priorities of the enabling environment that can be implemented to advance the housing sector, including monitoring the implementation of housing policies and the necessity of monitoring and evaluation in the policy development process [32].According to the analysis of the questionnaires, the results of the evaluation of the implementation of sustainable housing policies in the shelter, in order of importance, concluded that:

  • The existence of serious housing policies, considering the economic and human dimensions and the sustainable environment, is consistent with many previous studies, including [38]. Which emphasized the importance of adopting serious housing policies according to sustainable dimensions, and their absence is a reason for the failure of the housing sector. According to a 1974 United Nations survey, “Among 128 Third World countries, 30 developing countries were found to have a partial housing policy, while 77% of developing countries had no recognition of a housing policy [43]. A study [18] identified the role of housing policies in addressing slums, solving the housing problem, and preventing migration from the countryside to the city. This emphasizes the importance of housing policies.

  • Developed and updated housing laws and legislation that lead to sustainable access to housing. There must be updated laws that, with everything new, follow international standards and legitimacy and include updates to building systems, organizational laws, distribution justice systems, and laws to eliminate chaos in the shelter sector. It is considered an important recommendation for many researchers, such as [35, 39]. Governments can greatly facilitate the speed of urban development and redevelopment through appropriate legislation and regulations, and the need for strong legislation and sound governance cannot be overemphasized. [34]. Proposing [36] solutions to meet the future housing needs of people with limited income, including simplifying procedures and updating legislation and laws. Agrees with [40] in reviewing current legislation and issuing new legislation to strengthen the legislative frameworks supporting the action plan for housing and urban development.

  • Encouraging scientific research in the field of shelter. Scientific research in the field of shelter is considered very weak, and there is no interest in it, which is noticeable from the scarcity of research specialized in it [39]. Recommended developing scientific research and the construction industry to address the housing deficit, its degrees and distribution, to determine supply and demand, to know the annual licensing and construction rate, and to benefit from the experiences of other countries in addressing the housing problems.

  • Encouraging the local building materials industry and developing cost-saving and environmentally friendly building technologies. Efficient use of building materials is important to increase sustainability and is influenced by developing local technologies for environmentally friendly building materials while manufacturing materials locally instead of importing them. To prepare an effective housing policy. Suggest [31] encouraging the local building materials industry and developing cost-saving, environmentally friendly, and energy-saving building technologies [44]. Insisted that environmental balance should be achieved by relying on environmental construction systems and reusable building materials to reduce the depletion of natural resources.

  • Developing the capabilities of employees of organizations and government agencies in managing the shelter sector. There is no sustainability without ready cadres trained to implement sustainability in the accommodation sector, and thus qualifying cadres and raising their level is a very important point. These are the recommendations of [31] Developing the administrative and technical capabilities of all departments [32]. Building spatial planning capacities of stakeholders, and [40] determining training needs to ensure that immediate (short-term) and future (long-term) actions, as well as housing and urban development policies and strategies, will be directly supported by qualified human resources.

  • The importance of the participation of all agencies in shelter projects to create integrated cities, increasing the government's role in shelter projects. Applying sustainability in the shelter sector is a joint effort between working organizations and government agencies, each of which has a role that complements the other and does not cancel it, and the absence of one of them imposes a defect in the sustainability of the sector. [45] recommended that community participation be involved [35]. Determined the success of housing policies and the actual participation of beneficiaries [36]. Stressed the necessity of the participation of beneficiaries in the various stages and the importance of the participation of all government agencies [46]. Encouraged the participation of residents of slum areas in reviewing and evaluating the policies used to implement these treatments.

  • Creating awareness among the displaced, organizations, and the government of the importance of sustainability and its concepts. Awareness must be raised about the concept of sustainability, which is something that everyone applies according to their location. Recently, sustainability has become a popular concept in environmental, health, policy, and research domains [47]. And There is an increased knowledge and awareness regarding issues surrounding sustainability.

  • Partnership local implementation tools with global implementation tools. The shelter problem is an international problem, and therefore the process of implementing sustainability in this sector is a common matter between local and international bodies. SDG 17 calls for greater collaboration between public, private, and third-sector organizations to implement sustainable development, particularly with developing countries, and therefore partnerships will be vital. The overall goal is to create synergies between the expertise and resource bases of international organizations, NGOs, governments, and private sector enterprises, to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals faster, more efficiently, and more equitably than possible [48].

  • Establishing anti-corruption bodies in the shelter sector. The shelter sector is considered one of the most sensitive sectors because it depends on international humanitarian support in conflict areas. Therefore, there must be a supervisory body for it. to prevent corruption and nepotism. according to [39] policies aim to combat differences between classes of society and achieve social justice. This cannot be achieved by strengthening oversight, combating corruption, and establishing and developing specialized courts.

  • Banks’ contribution to developing the shelter sector, including housing loans for displaced people and real-estate investment companies. The level of importance of this item was moderate because the housing sector differs from the shelter sector in terms of financing, as the shelter sector is free, unlike the paid housing sector. In addition, most of the displaced people do not have or do not want to invest their money in housing projects under unstable conditions.

6.2 Results of implementing sustainable housing policies in shelters

In terms of the level of importance, in second place, this is naturally because the outcomes of any work take great importance in evaluating it and assessing its success or failure. This is what the specialists have emphasized, and it is consistent with many previous studies that reached the results of implementing sustainable housing and the goals of sustainable development. According to the analysis of questionnaires, the results of implementing sustainable housing policies in shelters, in order of importance, concluded as follows:

  • Sustainable national strategy for shelter. Building a national strategy for shelter is essential for proper governance of the shelter sector, which includes long-term goals of preserving resources, rationalizing their consumption, and providing adequate housing for the neediest groups. It also included recommendations from the study [23] National governments enact policies aimed at correcting market failures, increasing efficiency, and expanding access to housing across social groups. [26] Emphasized that the purpose of the National Sustainable Housing Strategy should be to create an integrated policy framework to guide the country in developing a sustainable housing sector. Agenda 21 was It is intended to reflect an international consensus to support and complement national strategies and plans for sustainable development. Link [49] The process of developing a national housing strategy is not viewed only from a material perspective but is linked to the issue of sustainable development.

  • Applying sustainability contributes to preserving the environment, agricultural land, forests, and water. This is strongly consistent with the goals of sustainability in reducing the depletion of natural resources and ensuring the ability for future generations to access these resources, Consistent with Goal 10 of Sustainable Development, Life on Land. principles of sustainability, Reducing the consumption of non-renewable resources and using natural resources with high efficiency such as energy, water, and land [50].

  • The application of sustainability encourages the use of modern and contemporary technologies that save energy and preserve the environment. Technology plays a vital role in enhancing sustainability in the construction industry by providing the opportunity to improve environmental and economic performance in this vital sector. Through the use of modern technology, waste can be reduced, energy efficiency increased, recycling enhanced, and project and materials management improved. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was unanimously adopted at the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit in September 2015, developed science and technology. Innovation is one of the seven main areas of action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • Sustainable strategies produce sustainable housing. As housing construction is considered the most considerable depletion of natural resources, achieving sustainable housing enhances the application of sustainable methods, which is therefore by Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Local Communities. Argues [24] One sectoral policy of great importance for sustainable development is housing [27]. Expresses that it is an objective issue that housing should be comfortable, economical, and reasonably maintainable, as well as architecturally expressive and environmentally compatible. The sustainability of this fundamental right can only be achieved through the production of ‘sustainable housing policies.

  • Sustainable policies are the appropriate solution to the shelter problem. The process of providing shelter is part of housing production, and therefore there is an urgent need for it to be sustainable. Sustainability in shelter is the goal of the research, and it is not adequately applied in the study area. It is blamed on the lack of interest in sustainability in shelter projects by the organizations and entities responsible for shelter and the absence of its concept.

  • Implementing sustainable policies contributes to developing solutions to social problems for those in need. According to [51] “a sustainable housing environment achieves socio-spatial justice for the population,” and therefore housing is pivotal in sustainable development [26]. According to the United Nations Development Programme, urban equity increases social development [28]. Argues that sustainable development seeks to reconcile environmental, economic and social development

  • Fair distribution of housing to the needy and security of tenure from forced evictions are compatible with the social dimension of sustainability Many studies have confirmed this. The application of sustainable policies was considered to ensure the sustainability of benefits security of tenure and the fairness of geographical distribution [39].

  • Implementing sustainability contributes to supporting the local economy. It is consistent with the eighth goal of sustainable development, which is decent work and economic growth [28]. Explains that sustainable development seeks to reconcile environmental, economic, and social development by combining these three axes, effectiveness in economic terms, justice in social terms, and possibilities from an environmental perspective.

  • The application of sustainability gives importance to the relationship between the family and the home, and it will provide the creation of a human need. Unlike, commercial housing. Housing is a basic human need that every family requires access to. Providing adequate and affordable housing. It has also come to the fore in international frameworks through the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with its dedicated goal for urban sustainable development (Goal 11) and the New Urban Agenda during the 2016 United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Development (Habitat 3). The problem of housing cannot be separated from development. Sustainable [49]. [33] Stressed that policy founders must understand the reality of the relationship between family and housing, and that it will provide the creation of a human need only [40]. Developing an integrated housing strategy to enable the possession of adequate shelter for all with Human Services.

  • Respect the right to adequate housing for those in need [43]. Emphasizes the importance of developing housing policies to preserve resources, rationalize their consumption, and provide adequate housing for the neediest groups. This is consistent with the social and economic dimensions of sustainability. And Goal 11 for sustainable development.

6.3 Factors helping to build a sustainable housing policy for shelters

In third place were the factors that helped build a sustainable housing policy for shelter. According to the analysis of the questionnaires, the factors that help in building a sustainable shelter policy in order of importance were concluded as follows:

A need for a public authority for shelter as a central body for managing the shelter sector for drawing up its policies, and strategies, sound governance, and laws to regulate the housing sector the phrase was very important, and this emphasizes the importance of governance in implementing sustainability and its role in organizing and managing work [52]. Said that the effective implementation of sustainable development dimensions and programs requires capable governments [24]. Added, the public sector must play a strong guiding role. The implementation of sustainable development in a specific society. This dimension relates to state institutions that manage and organize social development policies. Economic and environmental [29].

For sustainability to be implemented, those interested in the shelter sector must understand the meaning and dimensions of sustainability. Sustainability has become one of the challenges of the century. To implement sustainability, everyone must be made aware of it and its benefits, especially those working in the housing sector, because it is one of the largest sectors that consumes energy and pollutes the environment.

Formulate data on the numbers of people in need, and their needs, and update and share are transparently among those interested in the shelter sector. This is consistent with several recommendations that are considered necessary measures for policy sustainability, such as the recommendation [32] to implement data formulation, updating, and sharing transparently, and to build the capacity to collect and analyze data related to housing needs and monitoring.

Availability of suitable land for construction. This point is considered one of the most important points agreed upon by all previous studies and considered one of the decisive factors for implementing sustainability, as a study [32, 39].

The existence of a clear plan to distribute roles among those interested in shelter projects for displaced persons, contractors, and organizations. Implementing sustainability is a joint task shared between all stakeholders. According to [53] a plan of action must be determined to make good use of the available resources, tools, equipment, and responsibilities of the relevant bodies to reach the goals of the cooperative.

The need for training programs for those responsible for implementing housing plans and programs. Participants need to raise their level of experience and be informed of everything new and the experiences of other countries in dealing with housing problems. According to [40] New programs must be developed to build capacity by training trainers to respond to the requirements generated by the housing action plan.

Availability of required building materials from sites that do not destroy the environment. This phrase is of great importance for evaluating the sustainability of a policy. Housing construction consumes a lot of materials from the local environment, and therefore the production of materials must be sustainable and not lead to the destruction of sites and pollution of the environment.

Follow a stimulating financial policy for the shelter sector through support, subsidies, and abolition of taxes. Unlike housing, the housing sector is free and is based on international aid. Work must be done to reduce the cost of housing by canceling taxes on imported materials and reducing fees related to licenses and land demarcation. Most previous studies agree on the necessity of abolishing taxes and fees to reduce costs [30, 32, 36].

Preserving natural resources, agricultural lands, forests, and olive groves, the process of producing sustainable shelter must not lead to encroachment on agricultural lands and a reduction in their area and forests. Building sites must be located far from natural resources and water sources, which is the essence of sustainability.

Motivating housing associations and community associations to contribute to financing affordable housing programs and installment housing over a long period. According to the residential complexes report, 33% of shelter projects were funded by the displaced themselves [54]. Which is a large percentage. Therefore, there is a need for a contribution to finance affordable shelter programs to help the displaced secure their housing.

Controlling and monitoring the real-estate market. The phrase is of moderate importance because the process of sustainable shelter is free, and thus the impact of market speculation is minimal, interpreting its average value.

Administrative and political stability. The phrase was one of the least influential factors because shelter policies are applied in unstable work environments (places of conflict), unlike housing policy, which requires political stability.

6.4 Sustainable housing goals in shelter

Table 6 respondents ranked the goals of sustainable housing with a high degree of importance. This reflects the compatibility of the axis’s statements with its purpose and is consistent with many studies that examined the goals of sustainable housing, including [51]. Sustainable housing “meets the needs of its residents at present through good use of available resources to provide shelter that meets material and spiritual needs and is consistent with the environment, and it ensures the sustainability of resources to meet the needs of future generations in obtaining housing.” Environmentally, economically, and socially compatible housing. Sustainable housing is also described as one that “meets the needs of people today and does not harm the ability of future generations to meet their needs [55]“.The role of sustainable architecture reduces the negative impact on the natural environment and buildings, and the rational use of natural resources and appropriate management of buildings helps in preserve materials, reducie energy consumption, and improve the environment, taking into account the entire life cycle of the building [50]. The principles of sustainable urban design include “improving the quality of life in cities without leaving any additional burdens for future generations or depleting key resources” [56]. A sustainable building is a building “designed and constructed to minimize environmental impact and ensure that the building is resource-efficient (materials, energy, water, and space) in its operation and maintenance [57]. Sustainable housing is defined as “one that follows the basic principles of sustainable design, such as efficiency in dealing with energy, materials, and water, and enjoys a local design that is connected and compatible with the surrounding environment with all natural, industrial, and social elements, while achieving functional and environmental efficiency by providing comfort to users and reducing the negative impact on public health and the environment.” [58].

6.5 Factors that influenced the success of previous shelter housing policies

In fifth place were the following factors that influenced the success of previous housing policies. According to the order of the axis terms in terms of importance, we note that most of the factors that negatively affected shelter policies, this is consistent with many studies, where the lack of international funding is in the first place. The housing problem lies in the lack of financing [59]. The shelter problem is an international problem, and organizations and countries cooperate to find solutions to it. The lack of funding is one of the reasons for failure. Shelter policies. In addition, there is the absence of laws regulating the shelter sector, as many studies have called for updating and amending laws in the housing sector [14]. Indicates that housing policies must approve laws and executive decrees. There is a shortage in preparing training programs, and participants need to raise their level of experience and be informed of everything new and the experiences of other countries in dealing with housing problems, according to [40]. New capacity-building programs through the training of trainers must be developed to respond to the requirements generated by the Housing Action Plan. Also, the shortage of lands allocated for construction, organized and with good infrastructure, is consistent with the recommendations of [31, 39, 45]. Regarding updating and expanding structural plans and developing the necessary plans to link these plans to slum areas, which maintains the correct balance between government and private land uses. This is due to the failure to update the city’s organizational plans to include lands outside the organizational plan and invest them in housing projects. Due to the weakness of local authorities, which caused delays in introducing appropriate and regulating laws for work, the lack of interest in preparing post-housing studies to determine the effects of housing policies and their results is consistent with the recommendations of [36] which stressed the necessity of conducting post-housing studies to determine the effects of housing policies.

7 Recommendations

After analyzing the responses from housing and shelter specialists in the questionnaire to identify fundamental aspects, serving as the foundational elements for crafting a sustainable housing policy in shelter projects, we can propose several actionable recommendations.

  • Prioritize Sustainable Housing Policies: Emphasize the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping effective shelter solutions.

  • Establish a Strategic Governing Body: Formulate a higher council entrusted with devising comprehensive housing strategies, encompassing shelter policies.

  • Update Legislation and Streamline Processes: Revise laws, enhance regulations, and simplify administrative procedures to facilitate smoother operations.

  • Ensure Transparent Financial Management: Implement transparent financial practices across various operational levels.

  • Secure International Financing: Collaborate with global organizations to secure international funding, addressing shelter crises.

  • Waive Taxes on Construction Materials: Eliminate taxes on imported construction materials specifically allocated to the shelter sector.

  • Promote Scientific Research: Foster research initiatives in sustainable housing and shelter for informed policy-making.

  • Enhance Educational Curricula: Enrich university curricula with educational resources focused on sustainable housing and shelter practices.

  • Facilitate Land Provision and Planning: Work towards providing suitable land connected to essential infrastructure and expedite city organizational plans for efficient shelter and housing projects.

  • Support Local Building Materials: Encourage the growth of local building material industries and foster eco-friendly construction technologies for cost-effective and sustainable solutions.

  • Embrace Modern Building Technologies: Introduce modern construction methods and prefabricated building techniques for efficient shelter solutions.

  • Material Recycling: Implement recycling practices, especially materials from damaged structures, for use in shelter projects, promoting sustainability.

8 Future work

Future work will focus on preparing qualitative studies with those responsible for housing and shelter through individual interviews and group sessions with the aim of developing an introductory guide for a sustainable housing policy that can be applied in shelter projects.

9 Conclusion

Our approach involved gathering insights from housing and shelter experts through a structured questionnaire designed based on prior research recommendations, categorizing them into five key dimensions. The study underscores the importance of instituting a governing body to steer sustainable housing policies, advocating for legislative updates and streamlined administrative processes. Collaborating with international bodies to secure funding, exempting taxes on imported building materials for shelter projects, promoting research in sustainable housing, and allocating land linked to essential infrastructure emerged as crucial aspects. Additionally, expediting urban planning to leverage organized spaces for shelter initiatives, backing local building materials industries, embracing eco-friendly construction techniques, and embracing recycling materials, notably from damaged buildings, were highlighted. Embracing modern technology and prefabricated building methods were also proposed. While our quantitative approach provided initial insights, further qualitative studies are necessary to refine and effectively implement these strategies for a comprehensive sustainable housing policy.