BETWEEN OPEN SEWAGE AND WOODEN WALLS: AMARTYA SEN'S THEORY OF CAPACITIES IN THE VIVER MELHOR I AND II RESIDENTIAL IN MANAUS

Abstract

The housing deficit and precarious housing are structural challenges in Brazilian cities, especially in the peripheries. In Manaus, the Residencials Viver Melhor I and II were implemented by the Minha Casa, Minha Vida program to promote housing inclusion and improve the quality of life of the low-income population. However, it is questioned whether these projects promote human development or perpetuate vulnerabilities. Based on Amartya Sen's Theory of Capacities, this study analyzes the extent to which these housing projects contribute to the expansion of residents' capacities and freedoms, as conceptualized by Amartya Sen. The research adopts a qualitative approach and deductive method, combining documentary analysis and literature review allowing to understand how housing influences capacities in areas such as health,  education, employment, security, sanitation and urban mobility. The article is structured in three parts: initially, we present the Theory of Capacities and its relationship with the right to housing; then, we analyze the implementation of the Residencials Viver Melhor I and II and the challenges faced by the residents; Finally, we investigate the impacts of these housing policies on the expansion or restriction of individual freedoms. The results indicate that, although formal access to housing has been guaranteed, the absence of an integrated strategy compromises human development, perpetuating inequalities and restrictions on basic services. It is concluded that housing policies aligned with the Theory of Capacities can improve the living conditions of the beneficiaries and contribute to fairer and more inclusive cities.