The massive earthquakes that struck eastern Türkiye on 6 February 2023 affected 11 provinces with an area of about 350,000 km2 (140,000 sq mi). As a result of the earthquakes, official reports indicated that more than 50,000 people died, over 106,000 people sustained injuries, and it is estimated that the total number of people with disabilities will increase with the injured survivors. Approximately 280,000 buildings collapsed or were extensively damaged, including several hospitals and social service centers. Millions have been severely affected by the massive loss of livelihoods and assets.
Six months after the devastating earthquakes of February 2023, health and protection infrastructure and services remain critically affected. Among the 9.1 million people directly affected by the earthquakes, 3 million had to leave their homes and reside in formal or informal settlements in the affected area or have moved to other provinces. Efforts in water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH) and protection assistance are required to improve the current living conditions in tent settlements. The restoration of housing units and public infrastructure, including public service buildings, remains the priority. The authorities are consolidating informal and formal tent sites, transitioning residents to container cities to provide them with better services.
