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Countries with the Largest Homeless Populations in 2025
1. Pakistan Leads with Over 8 Million Homeless Individuals
Pakistan remains at the top of the list, with an estimated 8 million people experiencing homelessness. Rapid urbanization, economic challenges, and natural disasters contribute to Pakistan’s staggering figures. Cities like Karachi and Lahore see a significant influx of homeless populations due to their dense urban centers and limited social services.
2. Bangladesh and Afghanistan Follow Suit with Millions Living Without Shelters
Bangladesh reports about 5 million homeless residents, mainly driven by poverty and climate-induced disasters such as flooding. Afghanistan’s crisis, worsened by ongoing conflict and economic instability, accounts for approximately 4.66 million homeless individuals. These nations face complex challenges that hinder the provision of stable housing for their populations.
3. Nigeria and the Philippines Struggling with Mass Homelessness
Both Nigeria and the Philippines each have around 4.5 million individuals without permanent housing. In Nigeria, a combination of urban poverty, conflict, and displacement increase homelessness rates. Similarly, the Philippines faces recurring natural calamities, including typhoons, pushing many into homelessness.
4. Yemen and Somalia Facing Severe Humanitarian Crises
Yemen’s ongoing civil war has led to nearly 3.86 million homeless individuals, with many living in makeshift camps amid ongoing conflict. Somalia’s instability and drought conditions have left almost 3 million without proper shelter, exacerbating their vulnerable state.
5. Countries with Homeless Populations Above 2 Million
Sudan, China, Egypt, and India hold significant numbers of homeless individuals, with populations of approximately 2.7 million, 2.57 million, 2 million, and 1.77 million, respectively. Urban overcrowding, economic disparity, and ongoing conflicts are key factors influencing these figures.
Other Notable Countries With Rising Homelessness in 2025
- South Sudan has over 1.54 million homeless individuals, often displaced by conflict.
- DR Congo reports about 1.5 million homeless persons, largely due to ongoing instability and poverty.
- Iraq and Zimbabwe face homelessness figures of over 1.2 million, linked to war and economic hardship.
- Cameroon and Mozambique several hundred thousand strong, amid regional conflicts and climate change-driven crises.
Developed Nations and Homelessness: A Growing Concern
While traditionally associated with lower homelessness numbers, wealthier countries like the United States and the United Kingdom are grappling with significant homeless populations—over 650,000 and 380,000, respectively. Increased housing affordability issues, mental health crises, and economic disparities continue to challenge their social systems.
- United States: 653,104 homeless individuals, with recent spikes in urban centers such as Los Angeles and New York.
- UK: Approximately 380,000 people are experiencing homelessness, with rough sleeping and temporary accommodations on the rise.
Europe’s Growing Homelessness Trends
European countries like France, Germany, and Sweden are witnessing increasing homelessness rates. France has around 330,000 homeless residents, while Germany reports approximately 262,600, with factors including rising housing costs and economic inequality.
Australia and Canada See Rising Numbers Too
- Australia: Around 122,494 individuals are homeless, often due to housing affordability challenges.
- Canada: An estimated 235,000 people face homelessness, compounded by cold climates and housing shortages.
The Impact of Climate Change and Conflict on Homelessness
Natural disasters, climate change, and ongoing conflicts are driving spikes in homelessness worldwide. Countries such as Yemen, Madagascar, and parts of Central America see worse conditions each year, forcing millions into makeshift homes or the streets.
Why Does Homelessness Persist?
The root causes are multifaceted:
- Lack of affordable housing
- Ongoing conflicts and displacement
- Poverty and unemployment
- Mental health and addiction issues
- Natural disasters displacing communities
Addressing the Crisis
Global organizations and governments are intensifying efforts to combat homelessness through policy reforms, increased funding for social services, and emergency shelters. However, the scale of the crisis requires innovative and sustainable solutions that address systemic issues.
Summary
In 2025, homelessness remains a critical challenge that crosses geographic, economic, and political boundaries. Countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Nigeria lead the global rankings, but the problem is widespread, affecting both developing and developed nations. It demands urgent international cooperation, policy reforms, and community-driven solutions to ensure that every individual has access to safe shelter and basic human rights.
Data Sources:
- World Population Review
- OECD Homelessness Report 2020
Note: The figures presented are estimates based on the latest available data, acknowledging that numbers may fluctuate due to ongoing events and reporting updates.
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