Madagascar is taking ambitious steps to defend the planet’s oceans

Mis à jour le 22 May 2026

In a global context where ocean degradation poses a growing threat to biodiversity, food security, and climate stability, Madagascar is making its voice heard by adopting highly ambitious measures to protect its marine areas. The island nation, whose economic and ecological survival depends heavily on its marine resources, is now positioning itself as a key player in ocean governance, placing the conservation and sustainable management of the marine environment at the heart of its diplomatic and environmental priorities. Through a firm commitment, Madagascar intends to play a leading role in safeguarding the common heritage of humanity embodied by its oceans, thus demonstrating a keen awareness of global issues while pragmatically addressing its own internal challenges related to overfishing, pollution, and climate change.

This decisive turning point comes at a time when the international community is multiplying its initiatives to protect marine biodiversity, notably through the adoption of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdictions Treaty (BBNJ), signed in 2024 and ratified by Madagascar in early 2026. The official ratification, carried out at a ceremony in New York, demonstrates the country’s commitment to integrating its maritime activities into a framework of sustainable development and environmental responsibility. While the majority of the oceans still lack effective regulation, Madagascar aims not only to preserve its own ecosystems but also to actively participate in global marine governance. This stance, aligned with a progressive national strategy, is accompanied by several concrete projects designed to strengthen the resilience of its marine areas, ensure the equitable and sustainable exploitation of its resources, and contribute to the fight against the effects of climate change.

Legal and Strategic Measures for Marine Protection in Madagascar

In 2025, Madagascar took numerous legislative and institutional steps to establish a framework for the responsible management of its marine ecosystems. The ratification of the BBNJ Treaty, signifying a firm commitment to the conservation of two-thirds of the world’s oceans located beyond national jurisdictions, is a major milestone. This initiative is part of a clear sustainable development policy, where the preservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of marine resources are intertwined to form an innovative model. The creation of marine protected areas, the reduction of illegal and unsustainable fishing, and the equitable sharing of genetic resources are now priority objectives, supported by plans to strengthen scientific and enforcement capacities.

Strengthening sovereignty, supporting the blue economy

Scientific institutions, international partnersInnovative funding and projects for sustainable ocean management in MadagascarRecognizing that effective ocean protection requires substantial resources, Madagascar secured significant funding in 2025, including USD 5.29 million through the Global Environment Facility (GEF), for the sustainable management of its marine protected areas managed by local communities (see details here).

This financial support is part of a concrete commitment to address the challenges of overexploitation, marine pollution, and habitat degradation. In addition to this funding, the country has launched several collaborative initiatives and strategic partnerships to strengthen its capacity to monitor and control maritime activities.One of the flagship projects involves restoring these critical areas while ensuring the continued livelihoods of traditional fishing communities, particularly the Vezo, who form an emblematic community of sustainable fishing in Madagascar (more information here).

Furthermore, awareness campaigns on the sustainable management of marine natural resources are being conducted in collaboration with international NGOs and scientific institutions, with the aim of developing responsible ecology aligned with globally established objectives.Protecting Madagascar’s Oceans in the Face of Climate and Social Challenges

Beyond legislative and financial initiatives, Madagascar faces considerable challenges related to climate change. The increased frequency of cyclones, for example, further weakens its coastal ecosystems, exacerbating the threat to its marine habitats and vulnerable populations. The 2025-2026 cyclone season illustrated this vulnerability, with a record number of disturbances, highlighting the need for effective adaptation measures (more info here).Fishing communities, particularly those dependent on marine resources for their survival, are on the front lines of the social challenges of marine protection. Implementing inclusive local development, with equitable access to resources and fair compensation, is becoming a priority. Madagascar has also committed to strengthening community training and awareness through environmental education programs, essential for building participatory ecology and ensuring the sustainability of conservation efforts (see activities here). Regional cooperation plays a central role in this process, with the aim of uniting all stakeholders to overcome these shared challenges.

Challenges and Solutions for the Sustainable Management of Marine Biodiversity in Madagascar

Madagascar’s marine biodiversity, a true natural treasure, is under intense pressure. Overfishing, pollution, unregulated exploitation of genetic resources, and climate change contribute to an alarming situation. Implementing concrete solutions such as the creation of marine protected areas, increased control of fishing activities, and ecological restoration is essential to reversing this trend. Civil society, supported by international partners, plays a critical role in this transformation process.

Among the innovative initiatives is the adoption of a robust regulatory framework, complemented by awareness campaigns and training for local stakeholders. These actions aim to create participatory and sustainable management, while ensuring the economic viability of communities dependent on natural resources. Collaboration with the scientific community, particularly through monitoring projects, also contributes to a better understanding of oceanographic dynamics and the development of appropriate strategies.

Future prospects: Madagascar as a regional leader in marine protection

By ratifying the BBNJ Treaty and strengthening its commitments, Madagascar is establishing itself as a regional leader in ocean conservation. Active participation in the Conference of the Parties scheduled for 2026, as well as the mobilization of its bilateral and multilateral partners, is guiding the country towards integrated management of marine ecosystems. This dynamic not only promotes the preservation of biodiversity but also the emergence of a responsible blue economy, essential for long-term sustainable development.

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What are Madagascar’s main commitments to ocean protection?

Madagascar has ratified the BBNJ Treaty, created marine protected areas, limited illegal fishing, and supports the sustainable management of its marine resources to preserve its biodiversity and combat climate change.

How does Madagascar finance its marine protection initiatives?

The country has secured funding of several million dollars, notably through the Global Environment Facility, and is developing partnerships with international institutions to support its actions for sustainable development.

What are the major challenges facing Madagascar?

Vulnerability to cyclones, overfishing, pollution, and unregulated resource exploitation pose significant risks to marine biodiversity, requiring coordinated management that integrates civil society and the scientific community.