Rio de Janeiro is one of the largest cities in Brazil, with a population of around 6. 7 million. The development of Rio de Janeiro’s population has led to significant overcrowding and housing shortages, leading to the expansion of slums, called favelas in Brazil.
Rocinha is the largest favela in Brazil. It is located in the southern part of the city. It is built on a steep hill overlooking the town, just one kilometre from the beach. According to a 2010 census, it is home to 70,000 people. Unofficial estimates suggest a much larger population, probably as many as 180,000 people.
In Rio, more than 1. 2 million people live in favelas with less than 1 pound a day. Residents do not have full access to essential public services, such as health care, education and recreational spaces.
Infant mortality rates are highest in the favelas: 50 per 1,000, compared to a national rate of 15 per 1,000.
In 2011, life expectancy in Rio’s favelas decreased by as much as thirteen years than in the city’s wealthiest neighborhoods.
Rates of malnutrition, diarrhoea and disease are high. Organized crime and gang violence are also common.
Unemployment rates are high (up to 50% in 2016) and many other people work in the informal and low-paid sector.
Many young people have to paint for their families. A 1995 survey found that about five million young Brazilians between the ages of 10 and 14 painted. 18% of young people in Rocinha do not go to school.
Lack of schooling and low literacy make it difficult to access better-paid work.
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