Published: 12:32 AM, 18 October 2026
Homeless People Are Often Discussed in Conferences, Not Much Supported in Real Life
Abdullah Al Imran
Homelessness is one of the most pressing social problems in Bangladesh, yet the people who suffer from it often remain neglected. In conferences, seminars, and public discussions, politicians, policymakers, development experts, and social workers frequently talk about poverty reduction, human rights, and social welfare. They promise shelter, food, employment, and a better future for disadvantaged people. However, the reality on the streets is quite different. Thousands of homeless people continue to struggle for survival, while many of the promises made in air-conditioned conference rooms fail to produce meaningful changes in their lives.
In Bangladesh, homelessness is particularly visible in major cities such as Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, and Rajshahi. Many homeless people sleep on footpaths, railway stations, bus terminals, market areas, and under bridges. Some live in makeshift shelters made of plastic sheets, bamboo, and discarded materials. Among them are elderly people, abandoned children, persons with disabilities, unemployed workers, and families displaced by poverty, river erosion, floods, and other natural disasters. For these people, finding a safe place to sleep is a daily struggle.
Although government authorities and non-governmental organizations regularly arrange programs to discuss poverty alleviation and social protection, practical assistance often remains inadequate. Some shelters and charitable organizations provide temporary accommodation, food, and medical care, but their capacity is limited compared with the scale of the problem. Many homeless people still lack access to clean drinking water, sanitation, healthcare, education, and secure employment. As a result, they remain trapped in a cycle of poverty and exclusion.
One of the major reasons behind homelessness in Bangladesh is the lack of affordable housing. Rapid urbanization, rising land prices, unemployment, and economic inequality have made decent accommodation increasingly difficult for low-income families to afford. Climate-related disasters also force many rural families to leave their homes and migrate to cities in search of work. Unfortunately, many of these migrants find themselves living in unsafe conditions without adequate social support.
The gap between promises and action is particularly disappointing. During public events, leaders often emphasize compassion and inclusive development. Yet homeless people are rarely given a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their lives. Announcements of welfare projects may attract public attention, but their success should be measured by the number of people receiving lasting support, not by the number of conferences held or speeches delivered.
To address this problem, the government must move beyond discussions and take practical steps. More affordable housing, well-managed shelters, accessible healthcare, vocational training, and employment opportunities should be provided to vulnerable people. Local authorities should identify homeless families and connect them with existing social protection programs. Non-governmental organizations, businesses, community groups, and individual citizens can also contribute through food distribution, education, healthcare, and rehabilitation initiatives. Importantly, assistance should respect human dignity and help people achieve long-term independence rather than merely offering temporary relief.
The media also has an important role to play. Instead of highlighting homelessness only during disasters or special occasions, newspapers and television channels should regularly investigate the living conditions of homeless people and monitor whether public promises are fulfilled. Transparency and accountability are essential to ensure that resources reach those who need them most.
Bangladesh has made significant progress in several areas of development, but true progress cannot be measured by economic growth alone. It must also be reflected in how society treats its most vulnerable members. A nation cannot claim inclusive development while thousands of people struggle to find a roof over their heads.
Homeless people do not need sympathy expressed only through speeches; they need practical support, opportunities, and dignity. Conferences may raise awareness, but meaningful action is what changes lives. The time has come for Bangladesh to turn promises into policies and discussions into lasting solutions. Only then can the country move closer to a society where everyone has the opportunity to live safely and with dignity.
Abdullah Al Imran studies Software
Engineering in Green University
Bangladesh, Dhaka.
