The role of the MHPSS sector in addressing climate change stressors of displaced populations in Jordan

Abstract

Background Climate change is considered the greatest global health threat facing the world in the 21st century, which threatens to exacerbate social and environmental determinants of health. Despite the growing recognition of climate change related health impacts, the effects of climate change on mental health and psychosocial well-being have received comparatively less research attention, particularly lacking MHPSS1 intervention research in LMIC2 . This study aims at understanding the role of the MHPSS sector in Jordan in addressing climate change stressors of displaced populations. Jordan is a middle-income country that is greatly affected by the crisis in Syria, hosting the second largest number of refugees worldwide. Additionally, Jordan is vulnerable to climate change, facing high exposure to drought and water stress. Methodology A content policy analysis of key policy documents was carried out and complemented by a semi-structured interview with one MHPSS practitioner. The conceptual framework included the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Guidelines for MHPSS Interventions in Emergency Settings and the concept of climate justice which supported the data analysis. Findings Climate action by the MHPSS sector in Jordan is still scarce, particularly in relation to the various needs of displaced populations. Despite, actors propose a variety of climate action which is guided by key principles of the MHPSS guidelines and climate justice. Conclusion Future MHPSS and climate policy and practice should be rooted in MHPSS, and climate justice guiding principles and be more widely applied. The sector should consider a new MHPSS framework integrating climate justice approaches to adequately address the climate crisis.