Social and economic challenges

• Healthcare

  Problem: Healthcare and hospital access is better in the wealthier south and west zones

  Solutions: Community based 'family health teams' have improved vaccination programmes and health cover from 4% to 70% in some favelas (such as Santa Marta)
• Education 


  Problem: Only half of children continue their education beyond 14 due to:

  • Insufficient schools and teachers
  • The distance needed to travel to school
  • A need for teenagers to work to support their families Solution:
  • NGOs such as Schools of Tomorrow work with favela communities to improve education provision
  • Local government grants are provided to help children remain in school
  • Rochina Favela has opened a university
• Water supply


  Problem: Water supply and sanitation provision for all is essential-particularly in the densely populated favelas

  Solution: Since 1998, seven new treatment plants and 300 km of new water pipes have been built, 96% of the city now has safe piped water
• Energy provision 


  Problem: Overloaded electricity supplies lead to frequent power cuts. Many poorer people are forced to tap into the main supply, which is dangerous and illegal.

  Solution: New power lines and an HEP station have been installed. 1/3 nuclear power plant is due to open in 2023
• Unemployment

  Problem: About 3.5 million workers are employed in the informal economy (no tax contributions) Female (18% in 2019) and youth unemployment rates are particularly high.

  Solution: Solutions centre on education initiatives
• Crime

  Problem: murder, drug trafficking, kidnapping, and armed assults occur regularly in Rio

  Solutions: In 2013, Pacifying police units (UPPS) were established to reduce crime in favelas and take greater control.