“There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than how it treats its children.” This powerful statement by Nelson Mandela resonates deeply, especially in the context of Bangladesh, where a significant number of children are currently enduring neglect, oppression, and exploitation. This is not a situation that can be put on hold. Bangladesh is an emerging nation. This country's significant population of families is middle-class, low-income, or impoverished. Consequently, families are unable to lead a regular existence. Numerous children from these families are compelled to reside on the streets, where they are denied education, healthcare, and a secure environment, resulting in a cycle of poverty, exploitation, and marginalization that is arduous to transcend.
Children are inherently developing individuals who necessitate guidance into adulthood through education and experiential learning. Bangladesh's social structures inadequately offer equitable opportunities for the development of all children. Homeless children represent one of the most vulnerable and marginalized demographics in the nation. The government is obligated to furnish homeless children with resources to satisfy their basic needs as citizens of Bangladesh.
Street children are predominantly observed at Kamalapur Railway Station, Airport Railway Station, Tongi Railway Station, High Court Shrine, SohrawardyUdyan, Ramna Park, PalashiMor, DoelChatwar, Chankharpool, Dhaka University Campus, Shaheed Minar, Dhaka Medical, Gabtali, Sadarghat, and numerous foot overbridge locations throughout the capital.
These kids sleep outside because they don't have a permanent place to live. They do this on park benches, sidewalks, and the steps of stores and homes. Even though there are many NGOs and charities in Dhaka, why are there still so many homeless kids on the streets at night? Who is going to be responsible?
A research paper on the condition of street children under the 'Child Sensitive Social Protection in Bangladesh (CSPB) Phase-II' initiative indicates that 340,000 youngsters reside on the streets in Bangladesh. Severe poverty, familial disarray, and physical or psychological abuse frequently lead to numerous children being estranged from their families and living on the streets. To endure, they partake in risky endeavors.
A survey by the Ministry of Social Welfare indicates that obscene language impacts 51 percent of street children. Twenty percent experienced physical abuse. 14.5 percent of street children are subjected to sexual abuse. Forty-six percent of street girls have experienced sexual assault.
A report from the Social and Economic Enhancement Program indicates that approximately 44 percent of street children are drug addicts, 41 percent lack a bed to sleep in, 40 percent are unable to bathe, 35 percent defecate in public, 54 percent have no caregiver when ill, and 75 percent cannot communicate with a doctor when unwell.
The International Charter of Child Rights, our Constitution, the Children Act of 2013, and the Special Act on the Prevention of Violence against Women and Children ban all forms of cruelty, coercion, and both physical and mental abuse against children. To prevent economic exploitation and any perilous labor that may inflict harm and disturb his education. Children are entitled to protection from such actions. The kid possesses the right to be exempt from labor that jeopardizes their health and obstructs their physical, mental, economic, moral, or social development.
Reintegrating street children into mainstream society in Bangladesh is not just a necessity; it's an opportunity. It's a chance to disrupt the cycle of poverty, safeguard human rights, promote social stability, enhance health and well-being, and benefit future generations. This is a cause for hope and optimism, showing that change is possible and within our reach.
This is a complex task that requires focused strategies. These strategies, such as introducing educational programs, providing Shelter and Safe Spaces, offering Vocational Training and Job Opportunities, supporting Family Reintegration, ensuring Legal Protection and Advocacy, and promoting Public Awareness, are all crucial. However, the role of the public in raising awareness and fostering community involvement is not just important; it's integral. It's a collective responsibility that we all share, and each of us has the power to make a difference.
Education is the most effective means of reintegrating street children into society. Unfortunately, many street children in Bangladesh either do not attend school or leave at a young age. The absence of a stable and safe living environment is a significant barrier for street children. They are vulnerable to abuse, trafficking, and exploitation in the absence of adequate shelter. Street children who grow up without an education frequently struggle to break free from the cycle of poverty. Vocational training and skill development can lead to stable employment.
Many street children experience trauma as a result of neglect, abuse, or harsh living conditions. Psychosocial support is essential for reintegration efforts. Street children frequently face legal vulnerabilities, such as being arrested for minor offenses or not having proper identification. Legal reforms and advocacy efforts are critical to ensuring their protection.
For long-term reintegration, society must change its perception of street children, who are frequently stigmatized or ignored. Reintegrating street children in Bangladesh into mainstream society requires focused, multi-dimensional strategies that address their complex challenges. By combining education, vocational training, psychosocial support, and family reintegration while ensuring legal protection and public awareness, Bangladesh can offer these vulnerable children a chance to escape the streets and thrive as productive members of society. A collaborative effort from the government, NGOs, and communities is essential to bring about lasting change and provide street children with a future full of opportunity and hope. The writer is a Student, Department of Law, World University of Bangladesh
