Gaza Strip Response of Pandemic & Consequences of Inadequate Home Quarantine

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities of communities worldwide, particularly in Gaza, where pre-existing challenges such as siege, sanctions, occupation, and resource scarcity amplify the crisis. This research examines the consequences of inadequate home quarantine measures in Gaza, focusing on the social repercussions, including an increase in domestic violence, divorce rates, and gender-based violence. Utilizing a systems thinking approach and the iceberg analysis tool, the study explores how systemic deficiencies in infrastructure, health awareness, and governance contribute to these issues.

The research identifies the layers of underlying challenges—ranging from limited medical resources and high population density to cultural and religious norms—and proposes a set of intervention strategies. Key recommendations include enhancing home quarantine conditions, promoting health awareness, implementing protective laws, and redesigning quarantine systems to address immediate and long-term vulnerabilities. This study offers a framework for mitigating social crises during pandemics, aiming to build resilience and prevent the aggravation of existing issues in highly constrained environments like Gaza.

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