Homophobic statements from state authorities in Madagascar worsens the stigmatization and discrimination that LGBTQIA+ Malagasy people face. It has to stop now.
For a long time now, the Malagasy LGBTQIA+ community has been forced to live in silence due to discrimination.
In early July, two LGBTQIA+ people spoke on a local TV channel in Mahajanga to promote an event. The Governor of Mahajanga reacted immediately, on the official Facebook account of the Governorate, by strongly denigrating the LGBTQIA community. The Governor’s statements invited hatred towards LGBTQIA+ people. Such statements are made regularly and this seriously impacts the mental health and safety of LGBTQIA+ people in the country.
The motto of Madagascar is, “Love, Fatherland and Progress.” When authorities make harmful statements about a part of Madagascar’s community, it goes against the country’s motto. Further, as Madagascar has ratified the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, homophobia by state authorities undermines the human rights principles outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
No one should live in fear because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Sign our petition and join us in asking for a Madagascar where everyone is free to live their lives without fear of discrimination, violence or online hatred.
