Our leaders must urgently implement comprehensive policies to reduce harm caused by homelessness

Homelessness is a global public health issue, and in many countries the number of homeless people is rising.1234 Williamson and Brunjes rightly draw our attention to some of the many causes of homelessness, the profound effects on people’s health, and some effective solutions.5A range of factors can contribute to a person becoming homeless, including inadequate affordable housing, immigration policies, social security policies, unemployment, family breakdown, and domestic abuse.124 The risk of homelessness is higher for those leaving institutional settings such as prisons, psychiatric hospitals, the child welfare system, or the military. Another very important cause of homelessness is armed conflicts. Wars in Myanmar, Palestine, Ukraine, and Yemen, for example, are destroying homes and whole communities and having devastating effects on people’s health.In the few countries with leaders who have prioritised this public health issue, there are examples of success.267 Governments need to put in place a comprehensive, long term strategy…
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