TV5 Monde journalist Gaëlle Borgia receives death threats in Madagascar

Mis à jour le 22 May 2026

In an international context where freedom of information is under more pressure than ever, Madagascar finds itself in the spotlight due to worrying events shaking its media landscape. At the heart of this storm is Gaëlle Borgia, a renowned journalist working for international media outlets such as TV5 Monde, whose courageous investigative work has unfortunately placed her under fire from critics and, even more seriously, direct threats. Her incisive reports, particularly those that dare to contradict the official version of events presented by the authorities, have triggered a wave of virulent reactions, ranging from smear campaigns on social media to outright death threats. This alarming situation is not an isolated case, but rather a symptom of a significant deterioration in the safety of journalists and press freedom in the country. It is crucial to understand the mechanisms of this intimidation, its perpetrators, and the profound repercussions it has on information and Malagasy democracy—a subject that concerns us all. In short: The Malagasy press under pressure 🚨 Journalist Gaëlle Borgia of TV5 Monde is being targeted with death threats following her investigations. 📄 The Ambohimalaza case, involving a fatal poisoning, is the starting point of tensions with the authorities. ⚖️ The Malagasy government has threatened legal action and demanded the replacement of Gaëlle Borgia and Pauline Le Troquier of RFI. 🌐 Smear campaigns are being waged on social media by public figures. 🗣️ The Malagasy president has publicly questioned the professionalism of journalists. 📰 Other reporters, such as Tsilaviny Randriamanga of L’Express de Madagascar, are also victims of intimidation.

🛡️ The Order of Journalists of Madagascar (OJM) condemns these practices, highlighting the dangers to press freedom.

• 🌍 Violence against journalists in Madagascar is part of a worrying global trend in 2026. Death threats against Gaëlle Borgia: a wake-up call for press freedom in Madagascar. The media landscape in Madagascar has been particularly tense in recent years, and 2026 is no exception. At the center of this media storm is Gaëlle Borgia, a journalist known for her tireless work and her ability to handle sensitive topics with exemplary rigor. A correspondent for leading international channels such as TV5 Monde, Arte, and France 24, she has unfortunately been the target of a series of death threats, intimidation that has sent shockwaves far beyond Madagascar’s borders. These pressures are not isolated incidents, but part of a broader pattern of attempts to silence those who dare to question official narratives. The turning point was her in-depth investigation into the Ambohimalaza tragedy, a tragic poisoning that claimed the lives of 32 people at a birthday buffet. Her investigations uncovered elements that openly contradicted the version put forward by the Malagasy government, an essential step in investigative journalism, but one which, in this context, became the catalyst for a dangerous escalation. We are seeing that as soon as a journalist deviates from the prescribed line, the reprisals can be swift and harsh. The gravity of the situation is amplified by the origin and nature of these threats. Beyond the often anonymous personal attacks found on social media, more identifiable figures have participated in this pressure campaign. One individual, identifying himself as an executive within the Ministry of Finance, uttered chilling words against the reporter. This publicly published message suggested that Gaëlle Borgia, praised for her work and even a Pulitzer Prize winner in 2020, was at risk of suffering an “accident” or even committing “suicide in prison.” These terms leave no room for interpretation and amount to a genuine attempt at intimidation, aimed at sowing fear and discouraging any further investigation. Although the Ministry of Finance has since distanced itself from these remarks, stating that the author was not part of its staff, the lack of a clear and firm condemnation of the message’s content leaves a bitter taste and reinforces the feeling of impunity surrounding such statements. This situation highlights the fragility of journalists’ safety when they carry out their work in environments where those in power poorly tolerate criticism. The Ambohimalaza case is emblematic of these areas of tension where the search for truth clashes with political interests, creating a climate detrimental to freedom of expression. It is essential that such situations be denounced relentlessly, as they undermine the very foundations of a democratic society where information must circulate freely. The role of the media is to question, analyze, and report, even when it is inconvenient. When this role is threatened, the entire citizenry suffers, because without a free press, there is no real counterweight to power. The protection of Gaëlle Borgia The safety of all media professionals is therefore an absolute priority, as their courage is the bulwark against opacity and disinformation. These events lead us to question the future of independent journalism in Madagascar and the concrete measures that could be implemented to guarantee a safe environment for those on the front lines informing us. The Escalation of Intimidation: When Power Reacts to Journalistic Investigations The Gaëlle Borgia case in Madagascar is unfortunately not an isolated incident, but rather a reflection of the growing pressure exerted on media professionals who dare to venture into sensitive areas. We have witnessed a genuine escalation of intimidation tactics by the authorities, particularly after the publication of the investigation into the Ambohimalaza tragedy. This investigation, conducted jointly by Gaëlle Borgia and Pauline Le Troquier, RFI correspondent, challenged the government’s claims regarding the causes of this tragedy. The government’s reaction was swift and varied, taking alarming forms. As early as July 28, the Malagasy Ministry of Communication sent a letter to the management of TV5 Monde, which Reporters Without Borders (RSF) was able to review. This document went beyond a simple request for a right of reply, containing thinly veiled threats of legal action. The government characterized Gaëlle Borgia’s reports as a “press offense” under Article 30 of the Communications Law and threatened to take measures to put an end to these “disturbances to public order,” citing Article 91 of the Penal Code. Even more serious, the letter demanded the immediate replacement of the journalist, an unacceptable interference in the editorial functioning of the media.
• Similar threats and requests for replacements were also sent to RFI management regarding Pauline Le Troquier, demonstrating a coordinated strategy to silence dissenting voices. This kind of institutional pressure is particularly dangerous because it legitimizes intimidation and can have a paralyzing effect on newsrooms, pushing them toward self-censorship to avoid legal and political complications. It is essential to understand that these actions are not only aimed at the journalists directly involved, but send a clear message to the entire profession: contradicting the official version can have serious consequences.
• Beyond administrative and legal pressure, we have also witnessed an orchestrated smear campaign on social media. This is a modern, insidious, and difficult-to-control form of intimidation. In the days following the revelations about the Ambohimalaza affair, several public figures, including a diplomat from the Malagasy embassy in Beijing and even a senator—who had previously served as Minister of Communication and as a journalist—strongly criticized the two journalists’ investigations. They publicly questioned their competence and professionalism, attempting to discredit their work in the eyes of the public. Behind the scenes, an advisor to the president also voiced his opinion on the alleged “unprofessionalism” of the RFI correspondent. The culmination of this campaign was undoubtedly the intervention of Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina himself. In an interview broadcast on national television TVM on July 24, the president, without naming them directly, stated that Pauline Le Troquier and Gaëlle Borgia “Were no longer journalists,” questioning their “political agenda.” Such far-reaching remarks from the head of state are extremely serious and contribute to creating a climate of hostility toward the independent press. Such statements undermine the credibility of the media and jeopardize the safety of journalists in the field, exposing them to public anger and potential threats. It is imperative to remember that a journalist’s role is not to have a “political agenda,” but to report the facts, analyze situations, and allow the public to form its own opinion. When the highest authorities of the state call this fundamental mission into question, press freedom is directly threatened. The consequences of this policy of intimidation are profound: they can lead to widespread self-censorship, an impoverishment of public debate, and an erosion of citizens’ trust in information. This is why the protection of journalists and respect for their work are essential pillars of any truly functional democracy. The situation in Madagascar is a worrying case study that calls for increased vigilance regarding the evolution of freedom of expression. For more information on the general threats to freedom of expression in the country, see our analysis.
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zryEEK-TUaM
• The repercussions for the profession: a climate of fear for Malagasy mediaThe death threats and intimidation campaigns directed against figures like Gaëlle Borgia and Pauline Le Troquier are unfortunately only the tip of the iceberg. They create a widespread climate of fear that impacts the entire journalistic profession in Madagascar. When correspondents for media outletsInternational journalists face such pressure; imagine the situation for local journalists, who often have less protection and fewer resources. This toxic climate has direct repercussions on the ability of the Malagasy media to play their essential role as a counterweight and watchdog of democracy. A striking example is that of Tsilaviny Randriamanga, a journalist working for the newspaper L’Express de Madagascar. He was targeted by attempts at intimidation for daring to address another sensitive topic: the case of the Boeing 777s registered in Madagascar and found in Iran. At a press conference held on July 30, Tsilaviny Randriamanga was publicly reprimanded by the President of the Senate after asking a question about this complex case. This public reprimand by a high-ranking state official is a form of direct pressure intended to humiliate and discourage the journalist from continuing his investigative work. This is not simply a difference of opinion; it is an attempt to dictate which questions are acceptable and unacceptable, thereby undermining editorial independence. The repercussions of this behavior are clear: it pushes journalists toward self-censorship, fearing for their safety, their careers, and even their lives. This phenomenon of self-censorship is one of the most pernicious, as it drains press freedom of its substance without necessarily involving an explicit ban on reporting. Fear becomes the primary censor. To understand other challenges facing the country, particularly regarding democracy, we can examine topics such as the fragility of democracy in Madagascar.
• Faced with this situation, the reaction of the Order of Journalists of Madagascar(OJM) was an important sign of resistance. On August 1, the OJM issued a statement denouncing the Senate President’s stance and reiterating the importance of press freedom. This courageous position underscored the solidarity within the profession and the determination to defend its rights. However, the Senate’s response, published the following day, was far from conciliatory. In its statement, the Senate deplored the OJM’s “misplaced corporatism” and, without explicitly naming Tsilaviny Randriamanga, declared that he was “in the pay of the regime’s opponents.” This serious accusation, emanating from a state institution, is an attempt to delegitimize the OJM and discredit the journalist, portraying him as a political agent rather than a media professional. Such allegations are extremely dangerous, as they can justify, in the eyes of the public and law enforcement, any form of subsequent repression or intimidation. Senate President Richard Ravalomanana did not respond to RSF’s requests for comment, leaving the question of establishing a constructive dialogue unresolved. We clearly see that violence against journalists is not limited to physical attacks, but takes more subtle forms, such as discrediting and stigmatization. These practices have a devastating impact on reporters’ morale and on the quality of information available to Malagasy citizens. They undermine public trust in the media, a fundamental element for the proper functioning of any democratic society. It is therefore crucial that the international community continue to closely monitor these developments and support local organizations fighting for freedom of expression. The media situation in Madagascar
• is a key indicator of the country’s democratic health, and the current signs are alarming. We must be vigilant and firmly defend the right to inform and be informed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZELpz0CocPI Protecting the Voice of Reporters: Strategies Against Violence and Intimidation Faced with the increase in death threats and intimidation targeting journalists in Madagascar, such as Gaëlle Borgia of TV5 Monde, it is imperative to implement robust strategies to ensure their safety and preserve press freedom. The first line of defense often lies in professional solidarity. The Order of Journalists of Madagascar, by publicly denouncing the pressure exerted on Tsilaviny Randriamanga, has set an example. This unity is crucial to presenting a united front against attempts to divide and discredit journalists. International press freedom organizations, such as Reporters Without Borders (RSF), also play an indispensable role in alerting global public opinion and exerting diplomatic pressure on authorities. Their reports and press releases are powerful tools for highlighting abuses and demanding accountability. We must also strengthen legal protection mechanisms. It is essential that communications laws not be used to suppress criticism, but rather guarantee the protection of the media and the plurality of voices. Reforming these laws, in line with international standards of freedom of expression, would be a significant step. At the same time, concrete security measures must be made available to reporters. This includes security training.

Digital and physical protection, protective equipment if needed, and psychological support for those exposed to traumatic situations. Creating emergency funds for journalists in danger is also an option to consider, enabling them to cope with unforeseen expenses related to their protection or forced relocations. These combined efforts are the only way to effectively counter violence against journalists and ensure they can continue to report without fear. Consider the importance of supporting independent journalism; it is a pillar of our societies. The challenges are significant, but the determination of journalists is even greater.

Understanding Threats to Journalists This interactive table helps you explore the different categories of threats journalists face, their impacts, and recommendations for addressing them. Threat Category ↑↓ Concrete Examples ↑↓Impact on Journalists ↑↓ Recommendations ↑↓No results found for your search. Beyond reactive actions, we must consider long-term solutions to strengthen the media ecosystem in Madagascar. This implies a firm commitment from state institutions to respect press freedom, not as a mere concession, but as a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution. Raising public awareness of the importance of free and diverse information is also crucial. When citizens understand the value of journalists’ work, they are more inclined to support them and reject hate speech and disinformation. Educational initiatives and communication campaigns on the role of the media are essential.

Partnerships between civil society and media professionals can help create a culture of respect and appreciation for journalism. It is also necessary to support the development of independent and financially viable media outlets, as economic dependence is often a tool for intimidation. This can involve providing support for the creation of journalists’ cooperatives, training in management and economic development for newsrooms, and promoting alternative economic models that guarantee financial autonomy. Success stories of media outlets that have managed to maintain their independence despite pressure are a source of inspiration. We must consider how to replicate these successes and adapt them to the Malagasy context. Ultimately, protecting Gaëlle Borgia and all journalists is not just a matter of individual rights; it is a matter of democratic health. A country where critical voices are silenced is a country where the truth is obscured, where corruption can flourish, and where citizens are deprived of their right to be informed. We all have a role to play in defending this fundamental right. The fight for press freedom is an ongoing battle, but it is a battle worth fighting, as it guarantees a fairer and more transparent future for all. International vigilance is all the more crucial for countries like Madagascar, which face multiple challenges, including growing food insecurity, which requires reliable and unhindered information. 🤝 Professional Solidarity: Uniting journalists in the face of adversity. ⚖️ Legal Support: Defending journalists under threat in court.📚 Security Training: Preparing reporters for physical and digital risks. 💰 Emergency Fund : Provide financial assistance to journalists in danger. 🗣️ Public awareness : Educate citizens on the essential role of the press. 🌐 International pressure

: Highlight abuses and demand accountability.

🛠️ Media independence : Support independent economic models. 📜 Legislative reform : Adapt laws to truly protect freedom of expression. The lasting impact of threats on investigative journalism and democracy in Madagascar The shockwave of death threats and intimidation directed against emblematic figures like Gaëlle Borgia is not limited to individuals, but extends to the entire journalistic community and, beyond that, to Malagasy democracy itself. When reporters of the caliber ofGaëlle Borgia , whose work for TV5 Monde is internationally recognized, are targeted, it sends a chilling message to anyone who might be tempted to follow in their footsteps. Investigative journalism, by its very nature, involves exploring sometimes disturbing truths, uncovering facts that some would prefer to keep hidden. Yet, it is precisely this type of journalism that is most vulnerable to pressure and most essential for the proper functioning of an open society. The lasting impact translates into a depletion of information available to citizens. If themediaNo longer able to freely investigate sensitive cases like the Ambohimalaza affair or the Boeing 777s, entire swathes of reality will remain unknown to the public. This allows corruption to become more entrenched, impunity to flourish, and the accountability of those in power to evaporate. The quality of public debate declines, as it is no longer fueled by factual and verified information, but by unchallenged official narratives or disinformation. This is a worrying scenario for any country that aspires to transparency and sound governance. Such incidents remind us of the crucial importance of a free press as a pillar of democracy, an independent watchdog for those in power. Protection against violence against journalists is therefore an absolute necessity. The consequences of this situation on the international perception of Madagascar are also significant. A country where journalists are threatened for their investigative work risks having its image tarnished on the world stage. This can have repercussions for foreign investment, tourism, and international cooperation. Development partners are often sensitive to the state of human rights and press freedom, which are key indicators of a country’s stability and good governance. It is therefore in the best interest of the Malagasy authorities to guarantee a safe and conducive environment for the media. Recent history is replete with examples where press repression has led to deeper crises, because without a safety valve for expression, social tensions can build up and explode. We should all consider the legacy these pressures will leave for future generations of Malagasy journalists and citizens. How can we encourage young reporters to embrace this essential profession if the price to pay is so high? This is a crucial question that requires concrete answers and a long-term commitment. The resilience of journalists like Gaëlle Borgia is admirable, but it must not serve as an excuse for government inaction. It is essential to create an environment where journalistic courage is valued and protected, not punished. Respect for press freedom is not a weakness, but a strength, a sign of democratic maturity. This is a principle we should all fervently defend, for it is upon which the quality of the information we receive, and ultimately the vitality of our societies, depends. Stories of

air tragedies in Madagascaror of mysterious deaths can only be fully understood if journalists are free to investigate and report the facts without fear of reprisal. The current situation is a call to vigilance and action for all those who believe in the power of information. Key Event 📅 Actors Involved 🗣️ Consequences for the Press 📰 Democratic Impact 🏛️ Publication of the Ambohimalaza Investigation Gaëlle Borgia , Pauline Le Troquier Death threats, requests for replacement, smear campaignsErosion of public trust, self-censorship, restriction of information Letters from the Ministry of Communication Malagasy government, management of TV5 Monde & RFILegal pressure, risk of prosecution Political interference in themedia

Statements by President Rajoelina

Andry Rajoelina Delegitimization of journalistic work, stigmatization Distrust of the press, risk of popular hostility towards journalistsResponse by Tsilaviny Randriamanga President of the Senate, Tsilaviny Randriamanga Public intimidation, accusations of bias Limitation of public debate, instrumentalization of institutions Reaction of the OJMOrder of Journalists of Madagascar Professional solidarity, denunciation of abuses Defense of journalists’ rights, affirmation of the independence of the profession Strengthening resilience: initiatives and perspectives for the safety of journalists in Madagascar The situation of journalists in Madagascar, illustrated by the challenges faced by Gaëlle Borgia of TV5 Monde, compels us to consider concrete initiatives to strengthen their resilience and guarantee a safer future for press freedom. Press It is not simply a matter of reacting to death threats or acts of intimidation after they have occurred, but of building an environment where these risks are minimized and where reporters can do their jobs without fearing for their safety. One essential approach is strengthening local capacity. This involves ongoing training programs for Malagasy journalists, not only on investigative techniques and ethical conduct, but also on digital security, risk management in the field, and psychological resilience in the face of stress and pressure. Practical workshops, led by experts in journalist safety, are also crucial.These initiatives can equip reporters with the necessary tools to anticipate and respond to dangers. We believe it is essential that this training be accessible and adapted to the realities on the ground in Madagascar. It is crucial that these initiatives not be imposed from above, but co-developed with local stakeholders to meet their specific needs. This is a long-term investment in the human capital of journalism. In parallel, the creation of support and monitoring networks between the media, civil society, and lawyers specializing in freedom of expression can provide an essential safety net. These networks would allow for a rapid response in the event of an attack or threat, offering legal support, media visibility, and, if necessary, assistance with the exfiltration or relocation of journalists in danger. Strong partnerships with international organizations such as Reporters Without Borders (RSF) or the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) are also vital, as they provide expertise, resources, and a voice that resonates beyond national borders. We firmly believe that violence against journalists can only be defeated through collective and coordinated action. Such efforts would allow for greater visibility on national news stories, such as the Fazsoi military tragedy, for which media coverage is essential for transparency.Beyond purely security-related aspects, it is fundamental to address the social and political climate that enables such threats. This requires constructive dialogue between the media, the government, and civil society to establish mutual respect and recognition of the essential role of the press. The authorities must clearly and publicly condemn all forms of intimidation and violence against journalists. and commit to bringing the perpetrators of these acts to justice. Impunity is the breeding ground for death threats and attacks on press freedom. Transparent investigations and exemplary sanctions send strong signals that can deter future aggressors. Nationwide public awareness campaigns can also play a significant role in countering hate speech and disinformation, which often fuel online attacks and smear campaigns. Highlighting the civic role of journalists, explaining how information is produced, and why supporting an independent press is crucial are actions that can change mindsets in the long term. Establishing an ombudsman or an independent body to resolve disputes between the media and authorities, while guaranteeing freedom of expression, could also be a path worth exploring. All these measures converge towards a single objective: to create in Madagascar an environment where courageous journalists like Gaëlle Borgia can continue to report without fear, thus contributing to the flourishing of a more enlightened and democratic society. It is a long and demanding path, but absolutely necessary for the future of information and democracy in Madagascar. We must ensure that the cultural richness of Madagascar, its discoveries and riches, are not overshadowed by violence against those who seek to share them. The challenges are there, but the will to be resilient and the thirst for information are just as present, and it is on these that we must capitalize to build a better future for press freedom. Why is Gaëlle Borgia being targeted by threats in Madagascar? 🤔 Gaëlle Borgia, a journalist for TV5 Monde and other international media outlets, was targeted with threats after publishing an investigation into the Ambohimalaza poisoning case. Her work contradicted the official version of the Malagasy government, triggering a series of pressures and intimidations, including direct death threats and smear campaigns on social media.What is the Malagasy government’s role in these intimidations? 🏛️ The Malagasy government, through the Ministry of Communication, sent threatening letters to the management of the media outlets employing Gaëlle Borgia and Pauline Le Troquier, demanding their replacement and threatening legal action. Public figures, including President Andry Rajoelina himself, also publicly criticized and delegitimized the journalists’ work, contributing to a climate hostile to press freedom. How do these threats affect press freedom in Madagascar? 📉 These threats create a widespread climate of fear that leads to self-censorship among journalists. They limit the media’s ability to conduct independent investigations into sensitive topics, thus impoverishing the information available to the public. This erodes trust in the press and weakens its role as a check on power, essential to the proper functioning of a democracy. Which organizations support Gaëlle Borgia and the Malagasy press? 🛡️ Organizations such as Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Order of Journalists of Madagascar (OJM) have actively denounced the threats and pressure exerted on Gaëlle Borgia and other journalists. They advocate for the protection of reporters, freedom of expression, and an end to impunity for perpetrators of intimidation. What can be done to improve the safety of journalists in Madagascar? 💡To improve the safety of journalists, it is crucial to strengthen professional solidarity, provide legal and psychological support, and train reporters on digital and physical risks. It is also essential that authorities strongly condemn all forms of intimidation, prosecute perpetrators of attacks, and work to reform laws to guarantee freedom of expression, while raising public awareness of the vital role of an independent press.