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Countries with the Largest Homeless Populations in 2025
1. Pakistan: Over 8 Million Homeless People
Pakistan tops the list with an estimated 8 million individuals experiencing homelessness. Economic instability, natural disasters, and inadequate housing policies contribute significantly to this staggering number. Urban slums are overflowing, and many families live in makeshift shelters or on the streets, often struggling to find basic necessities like food, water, and healthcare.
2. Syria: Approximately 5.3 Million Displaced
Years of conflict have left approximately 5.3 million Syrians homeless, many of whom are refugees seeking safety in neighboring countries or living in overcrowded camps. Despite some improvements, internally displaced populations continue to face harsh living conditions, with limited access to shelter and safety.
3. Bangladesh: Roughly 5 Million Without Stable Housing
Bangladesh’s dense urban areas and frequent climate-related disasters have pushed around 5 million people into homelessness. Rapid urbanization has overwhelmed infrastructure, leaving many vulnerable to living on the streets or in overcrowded informal settlements, with limited access to social services.
4. Nigeria & Philippines: 4.5 Million Each
Both Nigeria and the Philippines each have an estimated 4.5 million homeless residents. Nigeria’s challenges include economic disparity and violent conflicts, especially in conflict zones, while the Philippines faces recurring natural calamities such as typhoons and floods that displace thousands annually.
5. Uganda: Nearly 4 Million Homeless
Uganda’s homeless population approaches 4 million, primarily driven by poverty, land disputes, and internal conflicts. Many Ugandans live in informal settlements lacking adequate sanitation, healthcare, and shelter, highlighting urgent needs for comprehensive housing programs.
6. Argentina & Sudan: 3.6 Million & 3 Million
In South America, Argentina reports about 3.6 million homeless people amidst economic crises and inflation, leading to housing insecurity. Sudan’s ongoing political instability and ongoing conflicts contribute to roughly 3 million homeless individuals enduring displacement and destitution.
7. China & Nepal: Close to 2.6 Million and 2.5 Million
China, despite its economic status, has around 2.6 million people experiencing homelessness, often in rural areas or migrant worker communities. Nepal faces similar issues, with approximately 2.5 million homeless, mainly due to natural disasters and poverty.
8. North Africa and Middle East: Egypt, Iraq, and Others
Egypt and Iraq each report about 2 million homeless individuals. Economic struggles and residual conflicts continue to displace populations. Countries like Myanmar (1.5 million), Somalia (1.4 million), and Zimbabwe (1.2 million) also face significant homelessness challenges, often exacerbated by ongoing crises.
9. South & Central America: Peru & Burkina Faso
Peru and Burkina Faso each have around 700,000 homeless citizens. Economic hardship, political instability, and climate effects contribute to the increase in homelessness.
10. United States & United Kingdom: The Western Perspective
In the United States, over 650,000 people are homeless, a figure that has risen due to rising housing costs, mental health issues, and economic inequality. The United Kingdom reports approximately 380,000 homeless individuals, with housing shortages and austerity measures being key factors.
The Global Challenge and Response
The worldwide scope of homelessness in 2025 is heartbreaking and complex, with underlying issues rooted in poverty, conflict, climate change, and governance failures. While some countries are making strides with innovative housing solutions and social programs, the scale remains daunting.
Addressing homelessness requires a combined effort from governments, international agencies, and local communities—focusing on sustainable housing, healthcare access, and economic stability to prevent and reduce this crisis.
Note: These figures are estimates based on the latest OECD and UN reports from 2025, with numbers rounded for clarity.
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