Empowering Communities: Sustainable Solutions To Reduce Begging In Pakistan Through Social Entrepreneurship

Abstract

Begging is a persistent socio-economic issue in Pakistan, rooted in poverty, unemployment, social exclusion, and weak policy enforcement. Despite anti-begging legislation such as the Vagrancy Act 1954, the practice remains widespread and, in some cases, organized. Vulnerable groups—including women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities—are often exploited or forced into dependency due to a lack of sustainable livelihood opportunities. This study uses a qualitative, descriptive, and analytical approach to identify the root causes of begging and explore social entrepreneurship as a sustainable solution. The research draws on literature review, policy analysis, and proposed semi-structured interviews with policymakers, social workers, and community leaders. Guided by the Capability Approach and Social Capital Theory, the paper links poverty alleviation with empowerment strategies. Findings highlight that begging is driven by interconnected psychological, social, economic, and political factors. Addressing it requires an integrated model involving government policy reform, skills training, community engagement, and NGO–private sector partnerships. Key recommendations include enforcing anti-begging laws, targeted welfare for genuine cases, skill development initiatives, and public awareness campaigns discouraging direct almsgiving to professional beggars. The paper advocates shifting from punitive measures to empowerment-based interventions that promote dignity, inclusion, and long-term community resilience.