Beggar

Beggar refers to a person who asks others for money, food, or other assistance in public spaces, typically by street solicitation or panhandling. Begging can take place at sidewalks, transit hubs, or doorways and may involve direct requests, signals, or performances. The word derives from Old English beggan, meaning to ask or plead, and has long been used to describe people who rely on alms.

Historically, begging has been a common feature of many societies. In medieval Europe, religious mendicants such as the Franciscans and Dominicans vowed to live by begging and alms; other beggars included travelers, the unemployed, and the disabled. Begging practices and the social interpretation of beggars have varied with economic conditions, laws, and charity institutions.

Contemporary begging varies widely. Street begging remains visible in many cities and may be undertaken by individuals or groups; some beggars rely on handouts from passersby, while others may engage in busking, panhandling at traffic lights, or online campaigns. Poverty, homelessness, mental illness, addiction, and social exclusion are among the factors associated with begging, though not all beggars fit any single profile.

Legal and policy responses also vary. Some jurisdictions regulate solicitation, limit aggressive or obstructive practices, or prohibit certain activities, while others emphasize welfare services, housing, and employment programs to reduce need. Debates often address dignity and safety, the effectiveness of charity, and the balance between supporting vulnerable people and maintaining public spaces.