Impact of Drug Addiction on Street Children: Perspective Dhaka City

The escalating issue of drug addiction among street children in urban Bangladesh, mirroring challenges in other developing nations, is a pressing concern. Despite the significant population of drug-addicted street children in Dhaka, effective strategies to address this issue are notably lacking. This inquiry aims to understand the root causes propelling street children toward drug addiction and the socioeconomic factors contributing to their vulnerability. Utilizing a qualitative framework, the study collects empirical data through interviews and supplements it with a comprehensive review of UN publications, governmental documents, reports, and journal articles. Findings suggest that around 50 percent of Dhaka’s street children are affected by drug addiction due to familial detachment. The study examines various stakeholders’ roles, uncovering disparities between perceptions and realities faced by street-dwelling youths. It concludes that combatting drug addiction among these children requires a holistic understanding of multifaceted challenges, extending beyond economic factors to include fractured family structures and inadequate parenting. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to address the intricate social fabric contributing to drug addiction among street children.