Breaking the cycle: ending the criminalization of homelessness and poverty

The present study by the Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rightsand the Special Rapporteur on adequate housing as a component of the right to an adequate standard of living, and on the right to non-discrimination in this context, was prepared in accordance with Human Rights Council resolutions 8/11 and 52/10, in which the Council requested special procedure mandate holders to work in close coordination and cooperation on issues falling within the scope of their mandates. The study is aimed at assisting States to implement the guiding principles on extreme poverty and human rights (see A/HRC/21/39) and Council resolutions 43/14 and 55/11, in which the Council called upon States to decriminalize homelessness and life-sustaining activities of people in poverty.