Homelessness in context

For years, homelessness has garnered attention due to its intricate and multifaceted nature, resulting in myriad adverse effects for those grappling with this social challenge. Amidst the rapid global transformation and urbanisation, millions of economically vulnerable populations find themselves marginalised into a life of homelessness. This reality is especially harsh in post-apartheid South Africa, where despite progress, issues like poverty, inadequate housing, and informal settlements perpetuate homelessness. This chapter examines the complexities of homelessness in post-apartheid South Africa, particularly focusing on the victimisation faced by the homeless. Through a dual lens: understanding their experiences of victimisation and proposing policy interventions, this chapter aims to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of homelessness in a Southern African context. We delve into the multifaceted victimisation experiences of homeless individuals, including racial and social injustices, human rights violations, and fear of crime. It explores reporting patterns of victimisation incidents, interactions with criminal justice agents, and the pervasive fear of crime among the homeless. The authors advocate for context-specific and global policy measures that consider the unique victimisation experiences of homeless individuals. The proposed policy interventions aim to create safer environments, combat social injustices, and contribute to broader efforts to mitigate homelessness.