Mega-events and socio-spatial dynamics in Rio de Janeiro, 1919-2016

Research reveals that mega-events in Rio de Janeiro, such as the Pan American Games and World Cup, have shifted from promoting social inclusion to serving neo-liberal agendas under accelerated globalization. These events impose a 'shock doctrine,' installing temporary regimes of extra-legal governance that permanently alter socio-spatial dynamics in the city. The study analyzes infrastructure investments—totaling billions—from 1919 to 2016, tracing how discourses of urban development and spatial discipline have materially transformed Rio's landscape while reflecting broader capitalist exigencies.

Gaffney, C. (2010). Mega-events and socio-spatial dynamics in Rio de Janeiro, 1919-2016. Journal of Latin American Geography, 9(1), 7–29. https://doi.org/10.1353/lag.0.0068