Areas characterized by unauthorized occupation of land and construction of makeshift dwellings, often lacking basic infrastructure and services, represent a significant challenge in urban environments. These informal settlements arise due to factors like rapid urbanization, poverty, and inadequate housing policies, frequently appearing on the peripheries of major cities or on land unsuitable for formal development. A common example includes the favelas of Rio de Janeiro or the shantytowns found in many developing nations.
The formation and persistence of these settlements highlight critical issues of social inequality and spatial injustice. Their existence reflects a failure to provide affordable housing options for low-income populations. Examining their development provides insights into migration patterns, economic disparities, and the role of governance in shaping urban landscapes. Historically, these areas have served as entry points for rural migrants seeking economic opportunities in urban centers, offering a form of affordable housing, albeit often substandard, where formal options are unavailable. Understanding their dynamics is crucial for informed urban planning and policy development aimed at addressing urban poverty and improving living conditions for marginalized communities.
