M23 Examine impacts of slum clearance on neighbourhoods

Question 1

Intro

Answer 1

In preparation for the 2016 Olympics, the impacts of slum clearance schemes in Rio de Janeiro have brought both benefits and consequences to different stakeholders.

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous cities in South America. It’s located in Brazil over the Atlantic Ocean and is the second most populous city in Brazil.

This essay will examine the impacts slum clearance schemes have had on Rio: displacement and loss of livelihoods, power dynamics between stakeholders, and the effectiveness in managing urban stresses.

Question 2

Displacement and loss of livelihoods

Point, evidence

Answer 2

The slum clearance schemes in Rio de Janeiro resulted in the forced displacement of residents, leading to the loss of their homes and livelihoods.

Socially, prior to the 2016 Olympics, the government announced plans to clear over 260,000 households from slums, with 23,000 families and 70,000 people having been removed from their homes in Rio de Janeiro.

Question 3

Displacement and loss of livelihoods

Explanation

Answer 3

Many residents relied on their local environment for their livelihoods, and the destruction of their homes meant the loss of access to these resources.

Without adequate compensation or alternative housing, displaced individuals often found themselves in informal settlements, leading to increased poverty.

This illustrates the negative impacts of slum clearance on the affected communities, as residents are forced to rebuild their lives in unfamiliar environments.

Question 4

Power dynamics between stakeholders

Point, Evidence

Answer 4

The involvement of various stakeholders like the government and local communities, played a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of slum clearance schemes in Rio de Janeiro.

Economically, following the government announcing plans to clear slums in preparation for the olympics, they prioritised urban development and aesthetics over the needs of local communities.

Question 5

Power dynamics between stakeholders

Explanation

Answer 5

This approach was characterised by a lack of meaningful consultation with residents, leading to resistance from those who were affected.

While government officials focused on the economic benefits of hosting the Olympics and improving the city’s image, local communities prioritised their rights to housing and livelihood.

This highlights the necessity for urban planning that considers the voices and needs of all stakeholders to achieve equitable outcomes.

Question 6

Effectiveness in managing urban stress

Point, evidence

Answer 6

The slum clearance schemes implemented in Rio de Janeiro were largely ineffective in managing urban stresses and improving overall living conditions.

Despite the government’s claims that slum clearance would enhance urban aesthetics and living standards, the outcomes of these initiatives were often all negative.

Question 7

Effectiveness in managing urban stress

Explanation

Answer 7

Simply demolishing informal settlements and relocating residents does not address the root causes of urban stresses, such as inequality and overcrowding.

Instead, slum improvement programs that aim to improve existing infrastructure and services while engaging local communities have proven more effective in enhancing living conditions and reducing urban stresses.

The limited success of slum clearance in Rio de Janeiro highlights the importance of prioritising inclusive strategies in urban planning.