With no windows and little chance of retreat – daily life in underground civil defense facilities is difficult for asylum seekers. Why are families accommodated like this? Also: on the road after the flood disaster in Valencia, Spain. And: dealing with errors in the hospital. The show is directed by Franziska Ramser.
In the mass accommodation without windows: 24 hours in the asylum bunker
The canton of Aargau uses underground civil defense facilities as shelter accommodation – also for families with children. How does life work in these asylum bunkers? The “Rundschau” got a 24-hour view and shows what it means to live without windows and separate rooms. The report also shows why people chose Switzerland – and how their hopes have been disappointed.
The anger after the flood: a report from Valencia
They hurled mud at politicians and the royal couple – those who had influenced them in Valencia, Spain. At the end of October there was a flood disaster in this region where over 200 people died. As well as the destruction, the floods left a lot of anger behind: could the government have warned people better? In addition there is fear of violent weather events in the future, which promotes climate change.
Wrong medication and lost samples: When mistakes happen in the hospital
According to estimates from the Federal Office of Public Health (BAG), around five percent of all patients in Switzerland suffer avoidable damage during medical treatment. How can hospitals be made safer? One approach is the CIRS anonymous reporting system. But research shows that the system often works inadequately – with consequences for those affected.
Broadcast: Wednesday, November 27, 2024, 8:10 pm, SRF 1
What are the psychological impacts of living in underground facilities for asylum seekers?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Maria Sanchez, Expert in Humanitarian Affairs
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Sanchez. Thank you for joining us today. I’m excited to delve into some pressing issues, starting with the situation of asylum seekers living in underground civil defense facilities. From your perspective, what are the primary challenges these families face on a daily basis?
Dr. Maria Sanchez: Good afternoon! Thank you for having me. The challenges are indeed significant. Living in underground facilities means that asylum seekers are often cut off from natural light and fresh air, which are crucial for mental and physical health. Moreover, the lack of windows creates a feeling of confinement, exacerbating stress and anxiety, especially for children. Additionally, the limited space and resources make it difficult for families to maintain a semblance of normalcy.
Editor: That sounds incredibly tough for families, especially those who have already faced so much trauma. Can you explain why asylum seekers are placed in such facilities?
Dr. Sanchez: Certainly. Many governments resort to underground facilities during crises when there’s an influx of asylum seekers. These facilities may be seen as immediate, “quick fix” solutions to shelter the incoming population. However, this approach often overlooks the significant psychological and social needs of the individuals housed there. It’s an urgent need for humanitarian organizations and policymakers to re-evaluate these strategies to prioritize human dignity.
Editor: You mentioned the need for a reevaluation of strategies. What alternatives would you advocate for when accommodating these families?
Dr. Sanchez: Well, alternatives could include repurposing existing buildings above ground where families can access light, air, and community support. Additionally, integrating families into neighborhoods can foster a sense of belonging and provide necessary social services and educational opportunities, which are crucial for children. Housing programs that emphasize dignity and community are vital.
Editor: Absolutely, it’s essential to focus on more humane solutions. On a different note, I’d like to discuss the aftermath of the recent flood disaster in Valencia, Spain. How can communities better prepare for such natural events in the future?
Dr. Sanchez: Preparation is key. Communities should invest in infrastructure that can withstand flooding, such as improved drainage systems and flood barriers. Importantly, there should be robust disaster response training for local authorities and the public. Education on emergency preparedness should also be a part of community cultures, empowering individuals to act swiftly and safely during crises.
Editor: That’s a valuable perspective. let’s touch on the issue of error management in hospitals. We often hear about the impact of medical errors. What steps should hospitals take to improve their systems?
Dr. Sanchez: Hospitals must cultivate a culture of safety where staff feel empowered to report errors without fear of retribution. Implementing thorough training on error prevention and communication strategies is crucial. Additionally, integrating technology that aids in accuracy, such as electronic health records and reminders for medication administration, can significantly reduce human error. An open dialog about mistakes can lead to vital learning opportunities that enhance patient care.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sanchez, for sharing your insights on these critical issues. It’s clear that there are many dimensions to the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and how society can respond effectively.
Dr. Sanchez: Thank you for having me! It’s important to keep these conversations going, and I hope we can continue to advocate for humane solutions together.