Stories from Antananarivo · Madagascar

Madagascar has announced its electoral calendar, which includes a constitutional referendum scheduled for June 2027. This will be followed by a presidential election in November of the same year.

A minister in Madagascar announced a 'Plan B' if the mandatory vote to refer the former president to the High Court of Justice fails. The minister claims the former president lacks Malagasy nationality and usurped the title of President of the Republic.

The Association of Tour Operators of Madagascar is seeking a fair distribution of rising travel costs among stakeholders.

Madagascar, one of the world's poorest countries with over 70% of its 31 million population living below the poverty line, is finding new development opportunities through the rise of AI. Young individuals like 25-year-old Alina are seizing these opportunities.

A program aims to empower young people in Madagascar by encouraging them to express their ideas and take the floor. Participating in such initiatives builds confidence and fosters active citizenship.

Malagasy artist Odim Langal has won the Concorde Le Cance award. This follows a previous experience in Madagascar, potentially paving the way for international recognition. The award is described as a tool for Malagasy youth to express themselves publicly.

Russia has proposed providing assistance to Madagascar to organize the 2027 elections and conduct a referendum on a new constitution. This proposal follows a visit to Moscow in mid-April by Madagascar's Senate President, Thierry Rakotoniary. The statement follows concerns regarding potential Russian influence, noting that Madagascar has experienced attempts at interference from Russian actors in the past. The commission aims to protect the integrity of the elections against such external actors. The country is planning a referendum on a new constitution and a presidential election in 2027. This offer was reported in the context of regional political developments. During this meeting, Russia proposed providing assistance to Madagascar for the organization of its 2027 elections. The meeting was described as a relatively inconspicuous diplomatic movement.

The specific details of the charges and the identity of the individual are to be followed in a later report.

The Madagascar Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a communiqué on April 28 regarding a staff member at the French Embassy in Madagascar.

An estimated 1.5 million children in Madagascar are not attending school despite compulsory education laws. The report noted that low education levels and limited prospects persist in the country. In Antananarivo, children are observed performing for small amounts of money to survive. The situation has caused concern for families regarding the visibility and legitimacy of these children's activities.