Although the democratic election of a new government in 2014 ended five years of political crisis in Madagascar, the situation in the country remains fragile and volatile with potential for increased tensions and possibly even a new crisis in the run-up to presidential elections in 2018. Poverty is widespread and the country’s overall economic and social situation has not improved since the end of the 2009-2013 crisis. Overall, discontent with the government’s performance is increasing, and opposition parties, civil society and media actors are increasingly airing their frustrations openly. Moreover, there are indications that the government is reducing the democratic space; several controversial laws have been passed in recent months, including the new ‘Communications Code’ and a law to fight economic crimes.

In this EPLO Brown Bag Lunch discussion, Ms Hilde Deman will discuss the current crisis factors and possible scenarios for Madagascar in the run-up to the 2018 presidential elections. She will focus on the links between local and national conflict dynamics and highlight how Search for Common Ground is intervening to address some of them.

Hilde Deman is Search for Common Ground’s Country Director in Madagascar. She provides strategic guidance and oversees the implementation of the organisation’s programmes in the areas of good governance, security sector engagement, community security, media for peacebuilding, children’s rights, and sustainable business practice.

Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch and EPLO will provide tea and coffee.

Please note that seats are limited and registration is mandatory. Please RSVP to Susanne Wander if you would like to participate.