Abstract

This study explores the livelihood pattern of the ‘floating population’ in metropolitan Dhaka, Bangladesh by using the Sustainable Livelihood (SL) framework. Data were collected by applying a mixed-method approach consisting of a semi-structured questionnaire survey, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and qualitative observations. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used for presenting the findings of this study. The findings reveal that the survival of the floating population depends on a complex fusion of coping and adaptation measures based on their social relations, communal living, and mental strength. While their livelihood pattern is sustainable to some extent in the social context, it is economically, politically, and environmentally unsustainable. The study identifies the absence of appropriate institutional arrangements as a major constraint in ensuring the sustainability of their livelihood pattern. This study finally offers policy suggestions and advocates further scrutiny of this limitedly investigated subject in the research and policy domain.

摘要

本研究通过使用可持续生计 (SL) 框架探讨了孟加拉国达卡大都市“流动人口”的生计模式。数据是通过应用混合方法收集的，该方法包括半结构化问卷调查、焦点小组讨论、关键线人访谈和定性观察。描述性统计和主题分析用于呈现本研究的结果。研究结果表明，流动人口的生存取决于基于他们的社会关系、共同生活和精神力量的应对和适应措施的复杂融合。虽然他们的生计模式在某种程度上在社会背景下是可持续的，但在经济、政治和环境方面是不可持续的。该研究确定缺乏适当的制度安排是确保其生计模式可持续性的主要制约因素。本研究最终提出了政策建议，并提倡在研究和政策领域对这一调查有限的主题进行进一步审查。