In Brazil, what is a very poor quality house, often referred to as a slum?

The term "favela" specifically pertains to the informal settlements or slums commonly found in Brazil, characterized by inadequate housing conditions, lack of infrastructure, and high population density. Favelas typically arise as a result of rapid urbanization and migration to cities, where poor individuals seek better opportunities but find themselves living in substandard conditions. The unique social and economic context of Brazil has contributed to the development and recognition of favelas as significant urban areas, often tied to the country's historical and socio-economic issues.

While other terms such as "shanty" and "tenement" may describe poor-quality housing in other contexts or regions, "favela" is distinctly rooted in the Brazilian experience and culture, setting it apart from other forms of informal housing elsewhere in the world. Therefore, the recognition of favelas reflects both the challenges faced by residents and the resilience of communities in Brazil.