Brazil's favelas have almost tripled in size over 40 years
The area covered by Brazil's favelas has grown from 53,700 hectares in 1985 to around 460,000 today. Ahead of the presidential runoff, France 24 correspondents looked at conditions in these neighbourhoods.
As Brazil prepares for the second round of its presidential election on Sunday, French broadcaster France 24 has examined life in the country's favelas, the poor and often informally built neighbourhoods. Its Focus programme reports that many residents live in unsanitary conditions, and that the growth of these areas is creating both urban-planning and climate challenges.
Area almost tripled
Over the past 40 years, the land occupied by favelas across Brazil has almost tripled. It now stands at around 460,000 hectares, compared with 53,700 hectares in 1985.
Growth in major cities
The spread is especially visible in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Manaus and Belém. In these cities, favelas push further into urban space every year, posing challenges for both city development and the climate.
The report was prepared by France 24 correspondents Marine Resse, Fanny Lothaire, Mélanie Blondeau and Jan Onoszko. The programme's coverage stresses that addressing the situation calls for long-term urban planning solutions.
