Madagascar is experiencing a sudden, large-scale youth-led uprising known as the Gen Z movement that has swept major cities and destabilized daily life, prompting a sharp deterioration in public safety and prompting urgent travel concerns for foreigners.

Timeline of Events

• Protests organized and amplified by Gen Z activists escalated over recent weeks into mass demonstrations and violent clashes with security forces.

• Reports indicate at least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured during confrontations, including children, raising international alarm and calls for independent investigations.

• Amid mounting unrest and the military’s involvement, President Andry Rajoelina left the country aboard French transport, and military leaders subsequently declared control of key institutions.

Current Security Situation on the Ground

Streets across Antananarivo and other urban centers have seen frequent demonstrations, checkpoints, and sporadic violence, creating a hazardous environment for residents and visitors alike. Public services and transport have been disrupted in some areas, and the rapid shift in authority has left law enforcement and emergency response capabilities uneven and unreliable.

Implications for Foreign Travelers

Foreign nationals face elevated risks when moving through public spaces, particularly at large gatherings and in neighbourhoods experiencing clashes; ordinary sightseeing and routine travel carry greater danger than usual. Until stability and clear security guarantees are re-established, visitors should postpone nonessential travel and avoid areas where protests, military presence, or roadblocks are reported.

Official and Human Rights Responses

Human rights groups have condemned the use of deadly force and demanded impartial probes into the killings and injuries seen during the unrest, urging authorities to protect peaceful protest and ensure accountability. Diplomatic movements, evacuations, and statements from foreign governments are evolving rapidly as the situation unfolds and should be monitored for the latest guidance.

Practical Takeaway

Travel to Madagascar should be reconsidered at this time; visitors already in the country must stay informed of local developments, follow directives from authorities and their embassies, and prioritize immediate personal safety.