Homicides in Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil: a portrait of urban inequality

Abstract

In Brazil, homicides are one of the most sensitive indicators of urban social inequalities. Integrated social protection policies can have a definite impact over this health event. The objective of this article is to describe homicides in Belo Horizonte in the light of a conceptual model, part of the evaluation process of a redevelopment project in the city. Based on a review of the literature, this conceptual model was constructed to assess the relationship between homicides and urban living in Brazil. A descriptive study of homicides was carried out using data on the period from 2002 to 2012, extracted from the Mortality Information System (Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade – SIM). The conceptual model reinforces that the most expressive determinants of homicides are found in the cities, and are linked to inequality and exclusion, together with the values of a culture based on prejudice and the use of force. The prevalence of homicides in Belo Horizonte was high even in the formally urbanized part of the city, but reached numbers three to six times higher in its favelas. Most deaths pertain black young men of low schooling. These deaths usually take place in public roads and in vulnerable territories. Homicides are the synthesis of urban disadvantages, especially in vulnerable areas. The situation in Belo Horizonte is similar throughout the rest of Brazil. Pointing to the reality of living and dying in cities, these data testify against social inequality and its perversity.