Madagascar: The Episcopal Conference issues a warning to the transitional authorities

Mis à jour le 21 May 2026

At the heart of the political crisis shaking Madagascar in 2026, the voice of the Catholic Church is growing firmer, warning against potential abuses that could worsen an already precarious situation. The country’s episcopal conference, mindful of its moral and civic responsibility, has issued a clear message to the transitional authorities, emphasizing that the country’s stability cannot be guaranteed without genuine change in governance. Their warning comes in a context where the political transition, following the military coup of October 14, is a source of considerable concern about the future of the Malagasy nation. The intense pressure exerted by local and international actors, as well as rising social tensions, demand responsible intervention; otherwise, the risks of a spiral of violence or a return to past practices are very real. The international community is also closely observing this pivotal period, as Madagascar’s future depends on a collective capacity to overcome acute crises through dialogue and justice. The Catholic Church insists on the need to reaffirm respect for human rights, transparency, and the fight against corruption—crucial elements for ensuring national cohesion and restoring public confidence. The volatility of this transition demands unprecedented mobilization, lest the country be left facing lasting instability, which neither the international community nor the Church can tolerate. The message from the Episcopal Conference thus becomes a strong signal, inviting all stakeholders to commit to an ethical approach, one that offers hope or, failing that, chaos with disastrous consequences for Malagasy sovereignty.

Church intervention in the midst of a crisis: A strong warning signal regarding stability challenges.

For several decades, the Catholic Church in Madagascar has played a key role in social and political mediation, often seen as a pillar of stability in a country marked by recurring tensions. In 2026, this mission intensifies even further, as the political transition led by the military, following the abrupt overthrow of the former president, reaches a critical juncture. The Episcopal Conference has therefore decided to deliver a firm message, emphasizing the need for concrete actions to prevent any deviation that could jeopardize the national reconciliation process. Their call for visible change goes far beyond mere observation, translating into a demand for integrity and responsibility in the management of the newly established power. As a moral authority, the Church cannot remain passive in the face of a situation where abuses or malicious practices could once again destabilize a country that has already paid far too high a price. The Malagasy crisis, given these diplomatic challenges, demands a genuine, sincere, and comprehensive intervention capable of creating a credible governance framework while raising collective awareness of the risks of a return to past abuses.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggCXdTdeLr8 The issues under pressure: stability, governance, and social unrest in Madagascar

The rapidly changing situation in Madagascar is characterized by acute political instability, exacerbated by major social challenges. The sharp increase in tensions between different political factions, growing public distrust of institutions, and the threat of urban violence are making national stability fragile. In this context, the Episcopal Conference emphasizes the need to implement a robust political framework that takes into account popular aspirations while avoiding the pitfalls of authoritarian power. Governance must refocus on transparency, social justice, and the fight against corruption, as several observers have highlighted in their analyses. The weakness of institutions and the feeling of abandonment among the majority of the population are fueling a climate of social insecurity, making cohesion around a common project imperative. The social warning issued by representatives of the Church also serves as a reminder that a prolonged decline could lead to a humanitarian crisis, with irreversible consequences for national cohesion. Madagascar’s stability therefore depends on the ability of its leaders to overcome these challenges through dialogue, responsibility, and collective commitment, under the watchful eye of the international community.

Discover the missions, members, and news of the Episcopal Conference, the assembly of bishops that guides the Catholic community.

A transition under close scrutiny: risks and possible scenarios

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eABwjtHh94I The risks of a return to old patterns: the shadow of harmful practices persists Since the announcement of the transition, various voices, particularly those of the Church, have warned against a possible resurgence of old practices that have weakened Madagascar in the past. Corruption, poor governance, and organized crime are often cited as the main threats to the country’s true stability. The period preceding the regime’s overthrow demonstrates how these abuses can fuel a vicious cycle of crises, mistrust, and violence. The Episcopal Conference is therefore alerting its faithful and political leaders to the need for vigilance in order to avoid these pitfalls. The fear of a return to these patterns is fueled by the country’s very history, which has repeatedly seen the manipulation of institutions and the abuse of power used to advance personal interests.

The bishops warn against the specter of a return to the abuses of the past.

Ongoing dialogue and mediation

🌍 International Support

Ensures long-term stability

Diplomatic engagement and election monitoring

Episcopal Conference: a meeting of bishops to discuss religious, administrative, and pastoral issues within the Catholic Church.

Why is the Church’s voice so important in the Malagasy crisis?

The Church, as a moral and unifying force, can positively influence the transition process by calling for responsibility, justice, and peace. Its role extends beyond the religious sphere to become a pillar of social stability.

What are the main recommendations of the bishops’ message?

They call for the implementation of concrete reforms, the fight against corruption, inclusive dialogue, and increased vigilance against the return of harmful practices from the past.

How can the international community support Madagascar? By coordinating humanitarian aid, strengthening democratic support, facilitating political dialogue, and ensuring independent monitoring during elections.