Nationwide unrest has emerged from decades of instability, corruption and poverty in Madagascar, where three-quarters of the population lives below the poverty line. Youth-led protests over the lack of basic public services mirror global movements demanding a more prosperous future for the next generation. Since gaining independence in 1960, the African island nation of 32 million has continued to navigate volatile governments, neglected livelihoods and uncertainty about its future.

Poverty in Madagascar

Madagascar faces deeply rooted economic pressures that have left much of its population struggling to survive. With an average annual income of just $600, the Malagasy are among the world’s most impoverished people. The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) notes that, with “front-row seats to the lifestyles of elites,” the inequalities burdening the Malagasy have become increasingly visible.

Chronic underdevelopment has left basic services unreliable; water shortages, power cuts and limited sanitation affect millions daily. Rapid urbanization has further worsened living conditions, as 60% of urban residents live in informal settlements that lack essential services, including water and sanitation. The expansion of Madagascar’s urban centers has occurred alongside limited investment in education, health care and social infrastructure. 

As a result, weak human capital continues to limit opportunities to escape poverty in Madagascar. High tariffs imposed by the United States throughout 2025 have also affected major Malagasy exports, including vanilla. Coupled with the expiration of beneficial trade agreements between the two regions, these measures have heightened the economic turmoil already affecting tens of millions of people.

Gen Z Protests

Madagascar’s Gen Z community spearheaded nationwide protests over severe water and power shortages in September 2025. Protesters demanded greater job opportunities, humanitarian aid and accountability from elected officials, expressing frustration over what they see as neglected responsibilities and broken promises. CFR reports that the demonstrations quickly expanded to include broader demands for governmental reform.

Inspired by similar youth movements in Kenya and Nepal, the demonstrations were among the largest the Indian Ocean region has experienced in years. Disillusionment among Gen Z with autocratic rule, government inaction and visible inequalities continues to fuel worldwide concern about their futures—and, in turn, large-scale activism. Protesters from similar movements around the world offer one another support, energy and motivation, strengthening the push for a stronger youth generation.

The Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Madagascar 140th out of 180 countries for perceived corruption. Malagasy activist Shely Andriamihaja argues, “The youth are the first victims of corruption, especially in universities where the infrastructure is so bad.” The impact of corrupt, decentralized governance on Gen Z remains a key driver of growing global youth activism.

What the Future Holds

In response to the widespread protests, Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina fled the country and dissolved his government—a result similar to those achieved by other Gen Z–led movements. The president apologized to the protesters, acknowledging that his officials had failed to fulfill their responsibilities to their constituents.

While the protests reached some of their goals, there is still work to be done. CFR expects activists to seek a more concrete plan to alleviate poverty in Madagascar, which continues to burden the country’s youth.

– Jayhan Adhi

Jayhan is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

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