Urban environmentsIssues in informal settlements in developing cities

Developed world cities have land use zones with recognisable characteristics which have experienced change and redevelopment. Developing world cities have to deal with issues in their informal settlements.

Part ofGeographyUrban environments

Issues in informal settlements in developing cities

Case study - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Map of Brazil highlighting Rio De Janerio
Figure caption,
Map of Brazil highlighting the location of Rio

Rural - urban migration

Rocinha, one of the largest informal settlements in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Figure caption,
Rocinha, one of the largest informal settlements in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Many people in have given up in the countryside and made their way to large cities like Rio de Janeiro.

They move in search of a better life. People are attracted to cities in the hope of finding well-paid jobs in factories, better schools for their children, entertainment, better health care and a higher standard of living.

Unfortunately, the reality is very different as many families find themselves struggling for survival in sub-standard housing in Brazil.

Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro
Figure caption,
Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro