Argentina study finds millions missing from official settlement records

A study conducted by the National University of La Plata (UNLP) has identified approximately three million people living in informal settlements in Argentina who are missing from official records. Using artificial intelligence, satellite imagery, and geospatial data, researcher Nissim Lebovitz identified a significant discrepancy between official figures and actual population density in these areas.

The research, part of the Barrios Visibles project, aimed to improve flood risk assessments by accurately determining the number of people living in vulnerable zones. While the National Registry of Popular Neighborhoods (Renabap) accounts for nearly four million inhabitants, the new analysis suggests the actual number is much higher. In one specific instance in Los Hornos, Renabap recorded 330 families, whereas satellite imagery revealed more than 4,200 structures within the same boundaries.

The findings raise critical questions regarding the state's ability to accurately map its population and address the specific needs of residents in informal settlements.