From November 20 to 23, São Paulo hosted the IV International Seminar on Favela Urbanization, bringing together discussions that bridged theory and practice to address interventions in these territories. Centered on Brazil’s realities, the seminar shed light on the political challenges and the struggle to recognize the potential of peripheral spaces. It also highlighted a shared issue across Latin America: the need for adequate funding to support transformative actions and the legitimization of these territories. Within this framework, the article underscores the critical role of high-quality public facilities in favelas and peripheral neighborhoods. These spaces not only provide access to opportunities but also foster community bonds, serving as essential hubs for social organization and collective efforts toward building a more inclusive future.
Community urban facilities are essential for developing neighborhoods and cities, working as key drivers of urban sustainability. By offering accessible services, they reduce the need for travel, promote social connections, and empower the communities they serve. As fundamental infrastructure elements, these facilities are closely tied to social well-being, while their absence highlights existing inequalities.
