why do refugee camps exist today?

A nytimes article on refugee camps and the price of dignity explores the history of refugee camps while also accounting for their modern day existence. The article reads that "The camp model began at the end of World War II as a way to provide temporary housing for the displaced. “Over the years, camps have become the standard response,” Mr. Crisp said. “But they should be a last resort.”"

Refugee camps place a tremendous burden on host countries which agree to this burden under the premise that these camps are isolated and placed far away from society. But of course, placing large communities in isolation, free of resources and opportunity ensures a static state. Yet there are other options. The article reads that "Iraqi refugees managed to avoid being settled in camps because many had left for Amman and Damascus before camps were even considered. Nor did the United States want to call attention to the fact that 40 percent of Iraq’s professional class had fled." This article suggests that while resettlement is not a perfect solution, it is a better option.

http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/01/for-refugees-the-price-of-dignity/?ref=opinion