Giving money to beggars is a complex issue that many of us face regularly. On the one hand, it can seem cruel to ignore someone in obvious need. But on the other hand, simply handing out cash may not be the most effective way to help. In this article, we’ll look at some of the key reasons why giving money directly to beggars is often not recommended:
It can encourage and sustain begging
One of the most commonly cited reasons not to give to beggars is that it perpetuates the problem and draws more people to beg on the streets. When begging is lucrative, it essentially creates a market for it. People who beg regularly can make substantially more from begging than they could from unskilled labor. This provides an incentive for them and others to take up begging, rather than seeking more sustainable work. Some studies have suggested that the presence of begging corresponds with higher rates of organized criminal gangs trafficking vulnerable people into begging. So while an individual beggar may have a legitimate need, giving to them helps sustain an underground system that exploits people.
The money may go towards addictions
There is often a high correlation between begging and substance abuse problems. A UK study found that over two-thirds of beggars reported some form of addiction, predominantly alcohol, heroin and crack cocaine. While addiction is an illness that requires treatment, giving money directly to someone with an active addiction is unlikely to improve their situation. Most likely, it will feed the addiction which keeps them trapped on the streets. Enabling an addiction through spare change is not real help.
It can encourage aggression and inappropriate behavior
Beggars often use various tactics to elicit sympathy and encourage giving. Some may simply sit quietly with a sign explaining their need. But many engage in more aggressive tactics like following people down the street pleading for help. Some may make up desperate sounding stories, play loud music, or even physically grab at passersby. These behaviors clearly cross ethical lines, yet people often still hand over money just to escape the uncomfortable situation. This rewards and encourages the inappropriate behavior, which makes the streets more unpleasant for everyone.
More effective means of help are available
While giving some spare change may feel like a convenient way to help, it is very limited in its impact. There are almost always better options available if you truly want to make a difference. You could donate to local charities and programs that offer food, shelter and rehabilitation services to the homeless and vulnerable. You could volunteer your time at soup kitchens that provide healthy sustenance to those in need. Or you could call emergency services if you encounter someone clearly needing urgent medical or psychiatric care. Giving to beggars often makes us feel better than it helps them. There are ways to truly help those trapped in the cycles of poverty, addiction and homelessness – but giving directly to individuals begging on the streets is very rarely one of them.
The roots of begging
Begging arises from a complex mix of socioeconomic factors that drive people into very vulnerable positions. Some key drivers include:
Poverty and lack of opportunity
Poverty is perhaps the biggest root cause of persistent begging. Those living in extreme poverty, or who lack access to education and economic opportunities, can become completely reliant on begging to survive. Even in wealthy countries, disadvantaged groups like refugees, asylum seekers and undocumented migrants may find themselves marginalized, unable to work legally and dependent on handouts. Begging becomes their only means for obtaining food and shelter.
Homelessness
Homelessness very frequently leads people to begging as their only recourse for income. Those living on the streets often have limited employment options and require some source of money to scrape by. Even for those staying in shelters, the meager social support payments they may receive are rarely enough to get by. Begging becomes a necessary supplement just to purchase daily essentials.
Mental illness and disability
For some, mental disabilities or illnesses are the underlying cause of their inability to maintain employment and income. Schizophrenia in particular is commonly associated with chronic homelessness and begging. Those with untreated schizophrenia may lack the social skills and stability required for employment, and end up relying on begging for survival. Other disabilities like blindness or amputation can similarly lead to unemployment and poverty. Begging may be the only income source available to those lacking the physical or mental capacity to hold a steady job.
Drug and alcohol addiction
As mentioned previously, substance abuse and addiction are tightly linked to begging. Dependence on alcohol, heroin and other drugs can be both a cause and effect of homelessness and inability to escape poverty. Addicts often turn to begging to support their habit when it has rendered them unable to hold down employment. At the same time, the destitution of homelessness makes substance abuse more likely as a coping mechanism. The two issues fuel each other in a destructive cycle.
The demographics of beggars
So who are the people we encounter begging on the streets? Understanding the demographics can help shed light on why people end up in this situation. Some key facts include:
Age
– Most beggars are relatively young, with the majority being under 40 years old. Almost half are under 30.
– However, older people make up a disproportionate share of beggars compared to their share of general population.
– People over 50 make up around 15-25% of beggars.
Gender
– An estimated 70-85% of beggars are male.
– Women who beg tend to suffer even more vulnerabilities like domestic violence, sole child caring duties and severe mental illnesses.
Family situation
– Around one quarter of beggars have dependent children, though the children may not necessarily beg with them.
– Between 55-90% are single with no partner. Many are estranged from family who could otherwise assist them.
Background
– In Europe and North America, most beggars are native-born citizens. Immigrants make up a relatively small percentage.
– However in wealthy Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia, most beggars are illegal immigrants from poorer neighboring countries.
– Indigenous populations are disproportionately represented among beggars in countries like Australia and Canada.
So in summary, while beggars come from all walks of life, they are disproportionately more likely to be middle aged, male, single and from disadvantaged minority groups. Understanding who is most vulnerable to this fate can help target solutions.
The risks and hardships of begging
Begging may seem like an “easy” source of income to some external observers. But the reality is that those reduced to begging face severe risks and hardship:
Extreme poverty
Despite spending most of their day actively begging, most only raise the equivalent of less than half the minimum wage in their country. The small amounts given by passersby generally add up to extreme poverty-level incomes. They remain trapped in day to day survival mode.
Health risks
Constant exposure to the elements, poor nutrition and hygiene, violence and stress take a toll on health. Beggars have high rates of respiratory infections, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal problems, skin conditions and tuberculosis. Without access to healthcare, even minor illnesses can become life-threatening.
Violence and abuse
Living and sleeping on the streets puts beggars at high risk of physical assaults, sexual abuse and having any possessions stolen. Some criminal gangs also exploit beggars, controlling and taking a cut from their begging through threats and force.
Harassment and discrimination
Begging remains illegal in many jurisdictions. Even where legal, beggars face near constant harassment from police and security guards to move on from public places. General public attitudes are often hostile, treating beggars as nuisances.
Psychological issues
The inherent despair, hopelessness and dehumanization of begging takes a psychological toll. Mental health problems like depression are extremely common among those forced to beg for survival.
Clearly, relying on begging should be an absolute last resort for someone in true destitution. While a rare few may not mind it, for most it is humiliating, hazardous and lonely existence.
The pros and cons of giving to beggars
We’ve discussed many reasons not to give money to beggars. But are there also any arguments in favor of giving? Let’s weigh up some of the key pros and cons:
Potential pros of giving to beggars
– It provides immediate relief from hunger and suffering – you know your money can buy food or other necessities.
– It connects us to our humanity – we have a moral duty to help less fortunate members of our community.
– It raises awareness of poverty and homelessness – interaction highlights how many are reduced to begging.
– It gives agency to the recipient – they can choose how best to spend the money you give them.
– It sets a positive example for children – teaches compassion and caring for those in need.
Potential cons of giving to beggars
– It may prolong begging by making it more lucrative rather than encouraging sustainable work.
– The money may be used to buy drugs/alcohol worsening addiction issues.
– It can fund criminal gangs involved in exploitation of vulnerable people.
– It may encourage inappropriate or aggressive begging tactics that make public spaces less pleasant.
– It fails to address root causes and may just be “enabling” destructive behaviors.
– More effective means of help like donating to charities or volunteering exist.
There are good arguments on both sides. In general though, the cons seem to outweigh the pros in most cases.
How else can you help beggars?
If giving cash directly to beggars is often not the best approach, then what are some better alternatives if you genuinely wish to help? Some constructive options include:
Donate to charities
Rather than giving change from your pocket, put that money towards reputable charities. Homeless shelters, soup kitchens, rehabilitation programs and many other non-profits all work to address the root causes of begging. Donating to programs actively working to help people get off the streets delivers much more benefit per dollar donated.
Volunteer your time and skills
In addition to financial contributions, you can volunteer directly at organizations supporting vulnerable groups. Serving meals at shelters, teaching classes at community centers, organizing donations drives and many other hands-on roles can make a tangible difference. You’ll get insight into the day-to-day needs and challenges of disadvantaged people.
Support systemic change
Advocate politically for more effective policies and social support systems to lift people out of poverty. Call or write to your elected representatives urging them to implement evidence-based solutions. Vote for leaders who champion the rights and needs of lower income groups. Policies addressing issues like healthcare, housing, and inequality can tackle the root causes.
Buy food, water or necessities
If you feel compelled to give directly, consider buying essentials like food, water, blankets and toiletries to give to those begging. This ensures your money is used constructively while still providing immediate relief. But be mindful of food safety and personal space when handing items to strangers.
Promote available services
Politely talk to beggars you encounter about where and how they can access support services like emergency housing, addiction counseling, mental healthcare and employment assistance programs. Carry information cards with contact details, opening hours and locations that you can hand out. This helps connect people with constructs solutions.
The ideal approach depends on your time, resources and capabilities. But in general, the most effective strategies address systemic issues and provide sustainable long-term solutions.
Regulating and restricting begging
Given the concerns around begging, should we ban and criminalize it? Or take a more lenient approach? Governments grapple with how best to address this complex issue. Some key factors to consider:
Arguments for restriction
– It may help reduce the overall prevalence of begging over time by eliminating the financial incentive.
– Bans allow police to intervene and connect vulnerable individuals to support services.
– Aggressive begging tactics can be curtailed, improving public amenity.
– Criminal groups profiting from exploiting beggars may be deterred and dismantled.
Arguments against restriction
– It punishes poverty and strips away the agency of those in need.
– Fines or arrests of destitute beggars are inhumane and counterproductive.
– It drives the activity underground and reduces transparency around who is begging.
– Evidence on the effectiveness of bans is very limited.
Potential middle ground approaches
– Allow passive begging like sitting silently with signage but ban aggressive soliciting.
– Heavily restrict begging in key public places like transport hubs but allow it elsewhere.
– Require licenses for begging while providing pathways to obtain them.
– Enforce restrictions against organized gangs involved in begging rings but treat individual beggars leniently.
– Run public awareness campaigns on refraining from giving to beggars rather than full bans.
There are reasonable arguments on both sides of this complex issue and a variety of policy options. An outright begging ban risks punishing vulnerable people for their poverty. But doing nothing also allows harm and antisocial behavior to persist and potentially worsen. Taking a nuanced approach seems wisest in most contexts.
How other countries regulate begging
We can look at how different nations around the world approach begging to understand the full spectrum of policy options.
Total bans
Some nations like Romania, Hungary and Greece have outright banned begging nationwide with fines or jail for those caught begging. Police are actively empowered to move on beggars. Critics argue this punishes poverty while doing little to address root causes.
Location-based bans
The UK and parts of the US ban begging only in specific public locations to curtail disruption to businesses and transport. This takes a more lenient approach for those begging in other areas. But inconsistencies around where is restricted can disadvantage vulnerable people.
Regulated begging
Portugal requires beggars to register and obtain a government issued begging badge. Sweden has trialled similar licenses so beggars can demonstrate legitimacy if questioned. This aims to deter unauthorized gang-based begging while still enabling individual freedom.
Generally legal
Germany, Spain and Canada allow begging as a form of free speech with few restrictions outside aggressive soliciting. Critics argue this laissez faire approach does little to help vulnerable people or solve issues around organized begging.
Distributing begging proceeds
In parts of India, charity organizations collect money given to beggars and redistribute it equally to all. This reduces potential exploitation but limits individual freedom and agency.
Enhanced social services
Some Nordic countries focus less on begging bans but instead offer strong social security payments, housing support and rehabilitation services aimed at preventing the need to beg entirely. But such robust public services are expensive to fund.
As this summary shows, attitudes and policies towards begging vary greatly depending on cultural norms and local context. But in general, a compassionate approach that helps people out of poverty without taking away freedoms seems ideal.
Conclusion
Begging springs from a complex mix of socioeconomic factors driving vulnerable people into destitution. While giving money to beggars may seem kind, it often fails to deliver meaningful help and can cause more harm than good in the long run. Donating to charities, volunteering or supporting systemic change are usually much better ways to assist. And when it comes to regulation, governments should avoid cruel punishments but also look to address the root causes that feed begging cultures. Begging is a sad symptom of inequality and social failings. While not always obvious, there are usually better solutions than simply throwing coins at someone on the street. With more understanding and nuanced policies, we can create a society were people need not beg for survival.