Madagascar
Formerly an independent kingdom, Madagascar became a French colony in 1886, but regained its independence in 1960. The military seized power in the early 1970s with socialist goals which sent the economy into a decline. Former leader Didier Ratsiraka was named president in 1975 shortly after the introduction of a socialist constitution which limited political activity. He wielded absolute power for 17 years until he was voted out of office in 1993, only to be re-elected three years later in 1996 after President Albert Zafy was impeached. After Ratsiraka's re-election, a new constitution increased the powers of his office.
In January 2002, large demonstrations erupted in Antananarivo in support of opposition presidential candidate Marc Ravalomanana, who ran while he was mayor of the capital. Police officers fired tear gas and used batons against the crowds, but demonstrations continued. A bitter six-month struggle for power ensued, dividing the island and leaving some roads, bridges and infrastructure in tatters. After the US and France recognized Ravalomanana as the legitimate leader, Ratsiraka flew to France and his forces on the island switched sides.
Ravalomanana promised to tackle poverty and unemployment, but he inherited an economy that had suffered months of economic disruption and political violence. He implemented free-market reforms which have been welcomed by donors and investors. Aid has increased and foreign debt has been cancelled. But poverty has remained endemic there have been demonstrations over rising prices. Despite this, in December 2006, Ravalomanana was reelected with 54.8% of the vote. This absolute majority enabled him to avoid a run-off poll.
The World Bank has estimated that 70 percent of Madagascans live on less than US$1 per day. Poverty and the competition for agricultural land have put pressure on the country's dwindling forests, threatening Madagascar's unique wildlife which is key to its nascent tourist industry. The island is also heavily exposed to tropical cyclones which bring torrential rains and floods, such as the ones in 2000 and 2004, which left thousands homeless.
There are currently no known threats to expatriate personnel traveling to or resident in Madagascar. Nevertheless, there have been cases of armed robbery in some National Parks. Travelers intending to visit National Parks should seek advice from a tour operator, or from the park administration. Avoid traveling outside urban areas at night, if at all possible and avoid wearing military style clothing. It is disapproved of locally and could lead to detention.
There has been a string of grenade attacks, mainly targeting government officials and connected interests, over the past year. Police have not made any arrests in connection with the attacks, but some government officials have called the blasts an organized campaign to destabilize the country, as they began after a series of protests over the soaring cost of living. The culprits may be former army reservists who have been demanding better compensation for supporting Ravalomana during the political crisis in 2002.
