[Optional: Copyright <>] Nadia Azam Submitted to the graduate degree program
in Global and International Studies and the Graduate Faculty of the University of
Kansas in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts.
________________________________ Chairperson Professor Eric Hanley
________________________________ Professor Hal Wert
________________________________ Professor Darlene Budd Date Defended:
Dec 7th, 2011 ii The Thesis Committee for Nadia Azam certifies that this is the
approved version of the following thesis: Beggarization: Beggary as an Organized
Crime in Pakistan ________________________________ Chairperson Professor
Eric Hanley Date approved: Dec 7th, 2011 Abstract This research analyzes
beggary as an organized crime, or beggarization, in Pakistan, focusing on
economic, religious, and political trends enabling the growth of this lucrative
industry. Economic factors include the economic viability of beggary as organized
crime, inequalities, inflation, and a lack of viable economic alternatives. Religious
factors such as zakat and madrassas serve to socially and financially legitimize
beggary. Criminal networks thrive under adverse political conditions including
government weakness and corruption. Demographic pressures include
urbanization, refugee and internally displaced populations, population growth, and
a high youth population. 1 Table of Contents Abstract
............................................................................................................... 1 Table of
Figures .................................................................................................. 2 Acronyms
............................................................................................................ 3 Foreign
Words..................................................................................................... 4 Chapter 1 -
Introduction ..................................................................................... 5 Research
Methodology and Significance ......................................................................... 6
Research Limitations and Future Research.............................................................. 7