Human rights in Madagascar


Human rights in Madagascar are protected under the country's constitution. However the extent to which such rights are reflected in practice, is subject to debate. The 2009 Human Rights Report by the United States Department of State noted concerns regarding the suspension of democratic electoral processes as the result of recent political unrest. Furthermore, reports of corruption, arbitrary arrest and child labor highlight the prevalence of human rights issues in the country.

Constitution and statutory responses

Adopted in 1992, the Constitution of Madagascar addresses the notion of universal suffrage, individual rights and the freedom of speech.
Laws regarding a minimum age for employment as well as the prohibition of child labor were passed.

International treaties

Madagascar's stances on international human rights treaties are as follows:

Issues

Censorship

Accusations of media censorship have risen due to the alleged restrictions on the coverage of government opposition. During the leadership conflict, Ravalomanana ordered the closure of "Viva TV", which was owned by his opponent, Rajoelina.

Equality

Women's suffrage was officially recognized in 1959. However violence against women and human trafficking continues to be an issue in society.

Legal system

The existence of key legal principles such as the rule of law and due process, is in question due to the increase in arbitrary and politically motivated arrests in the after
In December 2014, the List of Goods Produced by Child Labor or Forced Labor indicated that children in Madagascar engaged in 3 activities namely vanilla production, stone quarrying, and sapphire mining.

Poverty

The people of Madagascar are inherently oppressed by extreme levels and rates of poverty. As of 2005, the Eastern coast of the country had astoundingly high poverty rates of around 80% while urban areas are just over 50%. Over 80% of the population lived on under $1.25 per day and over 90% of the population on under $2.00 per day as of 2010. The country has seen major improvements in literacy rates. Generally, a correlation exists between literacy rates and poverty. Should the progress in increasing the number of literate Madagascans continue, poverty rates should begin to decline respectively.

Historical situation

The following chart shows Madagascar's ratings since 1972 in the Freedom in the World reports, published annually by Freedom House. A rating of 1 is "free"; 7, "not free".
Historical ratings----

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