Generation Z: Ready to take the reins or condemned to suffer the choices of others?

Mis à jour le 22 May 2026

In 2026, Generation Z finds itself at a crossroads, at the heart of a social and political context profoundly marked by protest and reform movements. After launching a large-scale civic movement, this generation succeeded in forcing the departure of a president, demonstrating its capacity to mobilize a new, firm, and determined collective energy. However, this initial success raises numerous questions: is this generation, rich in leadership and engagement potential, truly ready to assume the responsibility of governing, or is it condemned to endure the decisions of more traditional actors, often perceived as disconnected from the challenges of social change? The question goes beyond the simple notion of power or legitimacy. It prompts reflection on the capacity of young people, particularly Generation Z, to transform this civic energy into genuine systemic change, or whether, on the contrary, it will be quickly co-opted or diluted by institutional or military structures seeking stability.

A context of institutional crisis and major social division.

The recent departure of the Malagasy president has left the country in a worrying institutional limbo, while street protests continue to make their voices heard, imposing a pace of decision-making that bypasses the traditional framework. The constitution, although currently in force, has seen its foundations weakened by contested actions, notably the dissolution of the National Assembly, which has triggered a crisis of legitimacy. Faced with this situation, young people, particularly Generation Z, are expressing strong commitment, demanding a break with a system deemed incapable of meeting social and economic expectations. This generation sees itself as the bearer of lasting change, but must contend with a complex reality where power appears to be slipping out of all legitimate control. Should it allow itself to be drawn into a spiral of confrontation, or succeed in uniting its forces to influence decision-making? The answer depends largely on its ability to move beyond mere protest and develop a credible, inclusive alternative that respects the democratic framework.

The Stakes of Legitimacy in the Face of a Crisis of Authority

This tumultuous political period has highlighted the vulnerability of Malagasy institutions. The power vacuum, coupled with contested governance, is leading the population to question the true legitimacy of those in power. Generation Z, which mobilizes thousands of young people across the country, often sees its demands stifled or manipulated by military or political networks seeking to perpetuate their past influence. The question of decision-making then becomes crucial: how far can we trust traditional actors to define the future? This generation’s ability to exert real influence depends above all on its capacity to develop collective leadership, capable of translating its anger into concrete and viable proposals for a harmonious transition. Otherwise, it risks seeing its efforts diverted or hijacked by forces with conflicting interests, who will do everything to maintain their grip.

The challenge of an engaged youth facing the monoculture of protest

It is undeniable that Malagasy youth, like those of the rest of the world, are driven by a strong desire for change. However, this energy can quickly dissipate if it fails to structure a long-term vision, accompanied by clear leadership and a precise plan. The temptation to reduce the struggle to a street confrontation, even at the risk of fueling violence or hindering constructive dialogue, constitutes a major risk. Generation Z must therefore learn to combine civic engagement with a strategic and coherent approach, to prevent protest from becoming an end in itself, or worse, a repetition of cycles of failure. In light of recent history, particularly in other African and Asian contexts, a simple protest without concrete proposals often leads to co-optation by conservative or authoritarian forces, as demonstrated by the Rajoelina boycott or the general strike linked to the deteriorating socio-economic situation.

• Keys to Transforming Protest into a Positive Process
• 🙌 Structure collective leadership: appoint credible spokespeople who represent social diversity.
• 🔍 Clarify a clear roadmap: a precise timetable for reforms, and mechanisms for monitoring and transparency.

🤝 Establish an inclusive dialogue: involve all social, economic, and political forces to build consensus.

📢 Disseminate consistent communication: documents, public meetings, and up-to-date citizen surveys. 🌐 Leverage the digital dimension: use social networks as a vector for credibility and reliable information.

The limitations of a civic movement in the face of established players.

While Malagasy youth have demonstrated their ability to make their voices heard, they must also recognize the limitations imposed by those in power, whether military or political elites. The temptation to believe in decentralized participatory governance often crumbles in the face of a power structure that seeks to preserve its privileges. The management of the 2026 crisis illustrates that if protests continue to develop without a structured organization, they risk being co-opted or directly confronted. The risk then becomes a mass rejection of institutions, which could exacerbate the crisis, or an conflation of revolutionary youth with extremist groups. Young people must learn to guard against these pitfalls by remaining vigilant, asserting their fundamental values, and developing a strategy for dialogue with all stakeholders, including those who attempt to hijack the movement.

Illustration through concrete examples

The Generation Z movement in Madagascar has been characterized by protests, including a boycott of the executive branch in 2025, but also by massive demonstrations throughout the country. Yet, despite these efforts, a majority of young people feel disappointed by the lack of real change and fear that the old system, or its modified versions, will once again prevail. Weak national coordination, distrust of traditional actors, and a lack of concrete proposals continue to hinder progress toward a more egalitarian and transparent society. Strategies for strengthening civic and political skills are essential for this generation, which is determined to play an active role in the socio-political future.

Develop citizen platforms accessible to all, information campaigns on social networks

Build shared and transparent governance

Mobilize the diaspora

Structuring international networks and alliances with young expatriates

Strengthen influence and resources for the national cause

This structured approach, enriched by collective mobilization, will allow Generation Z to play a central role in the future of Madagascar and, more broadly, in global social change. However, this dynamic must be embedded within a framework that respects democratic principles, in order to guarantee a peaceful transition and lasting legitimacy.

Discover the characteristics, behaviors, and influences of Generation Z, a cohort marked by its relationship with digital technology and social change. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqdm6aBUZII

Discover the characteristics, behaviors, and trends of Generation Z, the cohort born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, profoundly influencing modern society and culture.