British newspaper The Guardian sheds light on a concerning trend in Prague: a significant increase in homelessness.

Their video documentary investigates the factors driving this issue in the Czech capital, which holds the dubious distinction of having the highest number of homeless people in Central and Eastern Europe.

The documentary follows Karel, a former sex worker turned homeless person, as he guides the reporter through the city. Together, they visit locations frequented by Prague’s homeless population, including Karlovo náměstí and Wenceslas Square. Karel shares his experiences and sheds light on the city’s history as a haven for sex tourism, which continues to impact lives.

The rising cost of living – with inflation pushing people into financial distress – and the ease with which someone can find themselves homeless are highlighted. The documentary explores the vital work of NGOs like Pragulic, which offers guided walks to help homeless individuals reconnect with the city.

However, it raises the crucial question: can such initiatives alone solve the crisis?

The reporter delves deeper, visiting the Naděje NGO and their day center near the main train station. Here, social workers grapple with limited capacity, forcing them to turn away those in need.

Furthermore, the issue has a gendered dimension. The Jako doma center caters specifically to homeless women, many of whom have experienced violence or sexual assault.

Rising rent prices, fueled by tourism, foreign investors, and the war in Ukraine, are identified as key factors contributing to homelessness, which one social worker describes as “the tip of the iceberg.”

The documentary concludes by featuring Místní místním, an organization that maps out resources available to the homeless. The reporter reflects on the “perfect storm” of problems facing Prague: a flawed housing strategy, a cost-of-living crisis, and the commitment to supporting Ukrainian refugees.

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