What is the term for a shantytown in Brazil?

The term for a shantytown in Brazil is favela. Favelas are informal settlements that typically arise due to rapid urbanization and economic inequality. They often lack infrastructure and basic services, resulting in challenging living conditions. The term specifically refers to the unique context of these communities in Brazil, which can be characterized by a strong sense of community despite the economic hardships faced by residents.

The other terms do not accurately describe a shantytown in Brazil. A barrio generally refers to a neighborhood in Spanish-speaking countries but does not specifically denote the informal nature of favelas. Maquiladora refers to manufacturing plants in Mexico that import materials and export products, not related to housing or informal settlements. Ciudad, meaning city in Spanish, is also too broad and does not convey the specific connotations associated with Brazilian shantytowns.