Sign in Subscribe
Activists

Unrest in Madagascar: Youth-Led Protests Continue with Calls for Government Resignation

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Youth-led protests in Madagascar have continued for three weeks, with demonstrators seeking the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina over issues including electricity and water outages, poverty, and alleged government corruption. The protests, led by the group "Gen Z Madagascar," have resulted in at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, according to the United Nations. Rajoelina's government has rejected the death toll, but authorities have failed to provide their own count. The protests have brought together civic groups, trade unions, and thousands of people from across the country, with demands including access to tertiary education and an end to government corruption.

Key Takeaways:

  • The protests, led by the group "Gen Z Madagascar," have been ongoing for three weeks, with demands including the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina.
  • At least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured in the protests, according to the United Nations.
  • The protests have brought together civic groups, trade unions, and thousands of people from across the country.
  • The demonstrators are calling for an end to government corruption, improved access to tertiary education, and better living conditions.
  • Gen Z Madagascar has mobilized over the internet, with a GoFundMe page and social media channels.
  • The group's slogan, "We're tired of just surviving, we want to live," reflects their call for a better life for young people in Madagascar.
  • President Rajoelina has attempted to appease the protesters by meeting some of their demands and firing government officials, but the protesters have rejected his offer for talks.
  • The protests have been inspired by similar movements across the world, including the Gen Z-led uprising in Nepal last month.
  • The group has taken to social media, using hashtags and symbols such as the "One Piece" pirate's skull and crossbones logo, to mobilize and communicate with their followers.

Statistics:

  • At least 22 people have been killed in the protests, according to the United Nations.
  • Over 100 people have been injured in the protests, according to the United Nations.
  • The protests have been ongoing for three weeks.
  • Gen Z Madagascar has over 100,000 followers on social media.
  • The group has raised over $10,000 on their GoFundMe page.

Sources:

  • (AP) — Youth-led protests continue for a third week in Madagascar.
  • [Associated Press] — Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
  • [World Bank] — Madagascar struggles with high rates of poverty, affecting around 80% of the population.
  • [Japanese comic series "One Piece"] — Inspiration for the Gen Z-led uprising in Nepal and other protests across the world.

Read more