In this paper the magnitude of death caused by the seismic collapse of low‐rise unreinforced masonry and adobe buildings is discussed. The small amount of research efforts spent on the seismic study of these types of buildings is found to be not proportionate to the high level of human loss caused by their destruction. The causes of the popularity and abundance of this type of construction in less developed countries (LDCS) are discussed. It is shown that this type of construction will continue to be the major type of construction for low cost housing in most LDCs for many decades to come. The causes of roof collapse of these buildings under earthquake action are described. It is concluded that the use of advanced high technology and costly methods for earthquake strengthening of masonry buildings are not feasible or easily implementable in most LDCs. The need for development of a suitable earthquake protection policy and design criteria for unreinforced masonry and adobe low‐cost housing (UMALCH) in LDCs is discussed and some findings are presented. Some principles and methods for designing UMALCH to resist seismic collapse are discussed. Also, some low‐cost methods for reduction of earthquake damage to UMALCH are given. The scope of research and development needs in the areas of improving the mechanical properties of low‐cost construction materials, developing a low‐cost light weight roofing system, and in improving the design methods for this type of construction are