‘Values’ as a tool for conceptualising homelessness in the global south

Much of our conceptual understanding of homelessness is derived from studies underpinned by ideas and definitions developed in, and for, the industrialised world. It appears inadequate to help us address the growing phenomenon of homelessness in the Global South. Moreover, with a few exceptions literature on homelessness in the Global South tends to present good empirical understanding but to shy away from reconceptualising. We need, therefore, to build a new conceptual framework through which to understand homelessness in the Global South.Drawing on empirical research, this paper explores homelessness in the Global South through the window of ‘values’. It does so in an attempt to understand why some people fall foul of the major social, political and economic changes which are perceived to be the driving force behind homelessness while others do not. It also seeks to make some sense of why homelessness and homeless people are perceived differently in different locations.

► The work discusses the need for a new conceptual approach to homelessness in the Global South.
► Current conceptual approaches are explored in relation to homelessness in the Global South.
► The role of political, economic and socio-cultural values is examined.
► Empirical research in a range of countries is used to express the arguments.