The Polish Woman Experiencing Homelessness

Abstract

It might seem that tackling the issue of persons experiencing homelessness in the 21st century, economically well-developed country such as Poland, seems to be of little importance. However, statistics, reports, and academic research results show that the issue of homelessness is neither becoming less prevalent, nor is it marginal. Moreover, the issue is still there, only its face is changing. The subject-matter literature clearly shows that anyone can become homeless, regardless of their social status. The right to housing is indicated among the basic human rights that secure comprehensive development. The difficult housing situation means that more and more people, especially young people, are faced with the difficulty of providing themselves a roof over their heads. Despite the fact that the legislator in Poland takes into account the principles that allow for securing the basic rights of people in the homelessness crisis, due to the complexity of the phenomenon itself, there are still areas that do not fully secure the needs of the homeless. The homelessness of women, who are culturally perceived as bearers of life and the keepers of the hearth and home, is particularly poignant. The situation of women experiencing homelessness stands in stark contrast to those perceptions. The aim of these considerations is to outline the problems of the people experiencing homelessness, to indicate the specificity of women’s homelessness in order to notice the differences in their situation, their rights, and the effective systemic solutions in this area.