Geography News Network

When it opened in July of 2012, Zaatari was intended to hold a maximum of 60,000 refugees.  However, UNHCR currently estimates the camp is housing nearly 150,000 people, 60% under the age of 18, making it the fourth largest population center in Jordan and more than three times the size of nearby Mafraq town.  The people of Jordan are beginning to speak up out of concern for their own welfare, and many are questioning the longevity of the current solutions.