For many beggars, especially those living at the margins of society, the threat of short-term imprisonment may carry little deterrent power. When survival itself is at stake, the calculation changes. A person who cannot secure food, shelter, or medical care may see begging as the only immediate option, regardless of legal consequences. In some cases, imprisonment may even be perceived as a temporary refuge that provides meals and shelter, further undermining its deterrent effect.
The social and economic roots of begging are complex and deeply intertwined. Poverty is the most visible factor, but it is rarely the only one. Unemployment, especially among unskilled workers, creates a pool of individuals with limited access to stable income. Inflation, rising housing costs, and unequal distribution of wealth exacerbate this condition. When economic shocks occur—such as recessions, sanctions, or sudden price increases—the most vulnerable segments of society are often pushed toward informal and survival-based activities, including begging.
Social factors also play a critical role. Family disintegration, divorce, domestic violence, addiction, and mental illness can isolate individuals from support networks that might otherwise prevent them from falling into extreme poverty. Migrants, particularly those who arrive in Tehran without social connections or legal protections, are especially vulnerable. Lacking access to formal employment, social insurance, or affordable housing, some find themselves with no viable means of survival other than begging.
Disability and chronic illness represent another significant dimension. Individuals who are physically or mentally unable to perform regular work may face insurmountable barriers in the labor market. In the absence of comprehensive social welfare systems, disability benefits, or accessible healthcare, begging becomes a last resort. In such cases, criminalization appears particularly harsh, as it punishes individuals for conditions largely beyond their control.
