Street Children in Bangladesh

 

Street Children in Bangladesh

A street child is someone for whom the street has become his/her habitual home and source of livelihood. Besides, these children are inadequately protected, or supervised by responsible adults. Their present condition is very pathetic. They do not go to school; instead they sell things in the streets to earn their livelihood. According to a government data, there were over three million street children in Bangladesh in 2015. These children are particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. The major problems faced by street children in Bangladesh include insecure life, physical and sexual abuse, no or inadequate access to education and healthcare facilities, and lack of employment opportunities. Mass awareness programmes can contribute to changing people's attitude towards street children. In addition, a comprehensive effort form government, non-government organizations and private sectors is required for the development of these children. Alongside the government, organisations like the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), JAAGO Foundation, Odommo Bangladesh, Smile, etc. are working for the street children in Bangladesh.