{"id":80211,"date":"2024-12-26T11:20:54","date_gmt":"2024-12-26T14:20:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rioonwatch.org\/?p=80211"},"modified":"2025-09-29T13:53:54","modified_gmt":"2025-09-29T16:53:54","slug":"2024-retrospective-of-top-international-reporting-on-rios-favelas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rioonwatch.org\/?p=80211","title":{"rendered":"2024 Retrospective of Top International Reporting on Rio\u2019s Favelas"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"This<\/a>
This shot from the World Economic Forum video ‘This Activist Says the Climate Crisis has Already Arrived in Her Favela’ highlights who is most affected by climate change and the best solution: prevention. It sheds light on an urgent and underreported field, adding to the solutions journalism genre. Photo: Screenshot<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Clique aqui para Portugu\u00eas<\/strong><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n

From 2013 to 2023, RioOnWatch ran the Best and Worst International Reporting on Rio de Janeiro\u2019s Favelas series<\/a>. It began, quite symptomatically, with the Worst International Reporting on Rio\u2019s Favelas: 2013<\/a>, where our conclusion was stark: many articles were \u201cnot only inaccurate but dangerous in reinforcing a stigmatized, unidimensional view of Rio\u2019s favelas and their residents.\u201d Over the years, the series documented a slow yet meaningful shift\u2014not only in the portrayal of favelas and their residents in international media but also in the choice of topics and the growing nuance in reporting. This evolution culminated in the 2023 edition<\/a>, which celebrated only the best of international coverage.<\/em><\/p>\n

In the spirit of this now-retired series, and recognizing the significant progress in international media, we are pleased to launch a new series in 2024. Written by guest collaborators, here we highlight recommended stories on favelas, continuing our commitment<\/a> to amplify authentic and nuanced narratives on these territories and their residents.<\/em><\/p>\n

The Importance of Nomenclature and Righting Historical Wrongs<\/h3>\n

16 Million People Live in Neighborhoods Brazil Calls \u2018Subnormal.\u2019 It\u2019s Finally Changing the Name<\/a><\/em>
\nAssociated Press – <\/em>David Biller and Diane Jeantet<\/p>\n

In this article<\/a> for the AP<\/em>, David Biller and Diane Jeantet take a closer look at the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics’ (IBGE<\/a>) decision to replace the term \u201csubnormal agglomerates\u201d with \u201cfavelas and urban communities,\u201d an important shift aimed at reducing the stigma<\/a> associated with informal urban neighborhoods. The piece delivers significant informational value by tracing the history of the old terminology<\/a>, explaining its problematic implications, and highlighting the collaborative process that led to the change<\/a>, including consultations with experts, civil society groups, and residents. The article\u2019s inclusion of historical context\u2014such as the origins of the term \u201cfavela<\/a>\u201d and its ties to resilience and struggle<\/a>\u2014adds depth and frames the story in a broader cultural and political narrative. Personal anecdotes, such as State Deputy Renata Souza<\/a>\u2019s reflections on the emotional impact of the old terminology, humanize the story and add important emotional depth. By avoiding sensationalism and focusing instead on systemic issues and the potential for progress, the piece offers a constructive and respectful portrayal of favelas. This thoughtful approach, combined with its focus on empowerment and solutions<\/a>, makes it an exemplary model of fair and impactful reporting on historically marginalized communities.<\/p>\n

\"Front<\/a>
Front page of the newspaper Correio da Manh\u00e3<\/em> covering the fire that destroyed the Praia do Pinto favela on May 2, 1969\u2014one of the cases highlighted in \u201cResidents of Rio de Janeiro’s Favelas Make Unprecedented Claim for Reparations for Persecution Under the Dictatorship,\u201d by Lucas Pedretti and Marcelo Oliveira.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Residents of Rio de Janeiro’s Favelas Make Unprecedented Claim for Reparations for Persecution Under Dictatorship<\/em><\/a>
\nAg\u00eancia P\u00fablica <\/em>via Global Voices – <\/em>Lucas Pedretti and Marcelo Oliveira<\/p>\n

Written by Lucas Pedretti and Marcelo Oliveira for Ag\u00eancia P\u00fablica<\/em>, and translated by Liam Anderson for Global Voices<\/em>, this article<\/a> highlights a pivotal moment in Brazil\u2019s pursuit of justice: the first-ever demand for collective amnesty by the Federation of Favela Resident Associations of Rio de Janeiro (FAFERJ<\/a>) and the Public Defenders\u2019 Office<\/a>. The piece sheds light on the systematic persecution of favelas and their leaders<\/a> during Brazil\u2019s military dictatorship<\/a>, including forced evictions, arbitrary arrests, and violence<\/a>. Blending historical analysis and current justice efforts, the article emphasizes the symbolic reparations sought to acknowledge these injustices. By connecting the repression of the dictatorship era to ongoing structural inequalities<\/a>, the piece provides a detailed and nuanced perspective on Brazil\u2019s historical and social challenges. It stands as an invaluable contribution to discussions on human rights<\/a> and collective memory<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Reflections of State Violence<\/h3>\n
\"Cover<\/a>
Cover of the book “I Was Supposed to Be at School,” by children living in the Mar\u00e9 grouping of favelas. Photo: Promotional material\/Editora Caixote<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Book of Kids\u2019 Drawings Reflect Regular Violence Shaping Their Lives in a Rio de Janeiro Favela<\/em><\/a>
\nAssociated Press<\/em> – Mauricio Savarese and Diarlei Rodriguez<\/p>\n

This article<\/a>, written by Mauricio Savarese and Diarlei Rodrigues for the AP<\/em>, reports on the launch of a powerful book titled I Was Supposed to be at School<\/em><\/a>, created by children and teenagers from Rio de Janeiro\u2019s Mar\u00e9<\/a> grouping of favelas. The book captures the harsh reality of growing up in one of the city\u2019s most populous communities, where children frequently have to shelter from stray bullets, cope with police raids, and experience interruptions to their education<\/a>. Through the testimonials and drawings of the youth, the book illustrates the toll that ongoing violence<\/a> has on their lives. In addition to accounts of police misconduct, including instances of abuse and deaths like that of 14-year-old Marcus Vin\u00edcius da Silva<\/a>, the book also expresses hope for a better future, with a child dreaming of peace and a return to school. The youth-centered focus of this story fills a stylistic gap in reporting which can often focus on the voices of adults. By maintaining the anonymity of the children involved, the authors not only protect their safety but also demonstrate respect for their privacy and well-being. This story stands out for spotlighting the hopeful spirit of the youth in the favelas and their role in activism, making it a well-deserved addition to this list.<\/p>\n

Founder of Manguinhos\u2019 Mothers: “The Struggle Gave Meaning to My Life”<\/em><\/a>
\nAg\u00eancia Brasil<\/em> – Rafael Cardoso<\/p>\n

In this article<\/a> published in English by Brazilian outlet Ag\u00eancia Brasil<\/em>, Rafael Cardoso tells Ana Paula Oliveira<\/a>\u2019s story of unwavering determination in the face of immense loss. Born and raised in the Manguinhos<\/a> favela of Rio de Janeiro, Oliveira has dedicated nearly a decade to seeking justice for her son Jonatha, who was killed in 2014 by a shot fired by a Pacifying Police Unit (UPP)<\/a> officer. Jonatha, 19, was on his way home when he encountered a confrontation between police and residents. The investigation into his death was plagued by delays and inconsistencies, and it was only in March of this year\u2014ten years later\u2014that the trial finally took place. To support other grieving mothers and amplify the fight against systemic violence and impunity, Oliveira founded the Manguinhos\u2019 Mothers group<\/a>. For her, achieving justice is not only about her son but also about preventing future tragedies and fostering societal change. Her resilience serves as a powerful voice for countless families navigating similar struggles, embodying hope and a commitment to transformation. Avoiding dramatization, this article offers a balanced account that underscores both the pain of loss and the strength found in advocacy. By amplifying Oliveira\u2019s truth, the article raises awareness of human rights issues and police violence in the favelas, rendering it a powerful and respectful example of responsible journalism.<\/p>\n

Update: On March 6, 2024 the Military Police officer Alessandro Marcelino de Souza was convicted of involuntary manslaughter (without intent to kill) in Jonatha’s death. This resulted in a lighter sentence, which remains to be assigned by the Military Justice System. Marcelino de Souza remains a free man, ten years after the original crime.<\/p>\n

Art, Fashion, and Entrepreneurship Propel Favela Culture into the Stratosphere<\/h3>\n

Born in Favelas, Brazilian Funk Gets Swank, Goes Global<\/em><\/a>
\nAgence France-Presse<\/em> via France 24<\/em><\/p>\n

Reported by AFP<\/em>\u00a0via France 24 News<\/em>, this piece<\/a> looks at how Brazilian funk, originating in Rio de Janeiro\u2019s favelas, has grown from local \u201cbaile funk\u201d parties to a global phenomenon, embraced by stars like Beyonc\u00e9 and Anitta. Blending hip-hop, electronic, and Afro-Brazilian beats, the genre symbolizes pride for favela residents while addressing themes of daily life, violence, and resilience. Despite its international acclaim and role in generating jobs and opportunities, funk faces persistent prejudice<\/a> rooted in racism, elitism, and its association with drug-related violence<\/a>. Initiatives like professional training programs and museum exhibitions aim to legitimize funk as a cultural and economic force, showcasing its enduring influence despite ongoing repression and stigma in Brazil. This article exemplifies positive reporting on favelas by illustrating funk\u2019s cultural significance and its transformative role in empowering residents and creating economic opportunities<\/a>. It also connects the genre\u2019s local roots to its global resonance, reframing favelas as centers of creativity and influence.<\/p>\n

\"Original<\/a>
Original artwork by David Amen captures the energy of favela “baile funk” parties that propelled Brazilian funk music into a global phenomenon.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Brazilian Dance Craze Created by Young People in Rio\u2019s Favelas is Declared Cultural Heritage<\/a><\/em>
\nAssociated Press<\/em> – J\u00falia Dias Carneiro and Diarlei Rodriguez<\/p>\n

This article<\/a> by J\u00falia Dias Carneiro and Diarlei Rodriguez for the AP<\/em>, explores the journey of passinho<\/em><\/a>, a vibrant dance style originating in Rio de Janeiro\u2019s favelas, now officially recognized as intangible cultural heritage by the state of Rio de Janeiro<\/a>. Combining influences from samba, capoeira, frevo, breakdancing, and funk, passinho<\/em> represents a dynamic expression of creativity and resilience from Brazil\u2019s marginalized communities. The piece delves into its roots in the early 2000s, when children and teenagers experimented with movements at home and shared their innovations online, sparking a competitive scene that spread across favelas. It traces the dance\u2019s rise to prominence, from local funk parties to international stages like New York\u2019s Lincoln Center<\/a> and the opening ceremony of the 2016 Rio Olympics<\/a>. Through vivid profiles of dancers and choreographers, the article shows how passinho<\/em> provides a positive alternative for youth in neighborhoods often associated with crime, offering a path to self-expression, financial independence, and hope. The engaging narrative and rich cultural context capture the energy and significance of passinho<\/em>, celebrating its ability to transcend geographic and social barriers. This story highlights the ingenuity of favela communities and their enduring contributions to Brazil\u2019s cultural identity.<\/p>\n