The Head of State has expressed support for the reinstatement of national service, separate from military service. During a speech in Ihosy on Saturday, he indicated that the modalities for its re-implementation are currently being studied by the Executive branch.
Described as a “duty of honor” under the general defense organization law, the national service topic was brought back into the spotlight by Colonel Michaël Randrianirina. The President emphasized that this return is “necessary, even if only for a few months,” to instill discipline, responsibility, and patriotism in the youth, noting that “the youth cruelly lack discipline.”
Historically, national service was established by a 1978 ordinance, requiring young Malagasy citizens to participate in national defense and socio-economic development. While it once included community and rural activities, a 1992 decree shifted it to a voluntary basis. Current challenges, including financial constraints, logistical capacity, and the potential for untrained recruits to be exploited by criminal groups (dahalos), remain significant hurdles.
The current administration is now considering making this service “mandatory” again. However, this initiative faces complex questions regarding budgetary resources, the need for military personnel to supervise tens of thousands of recruits, and potential legal conflicts with international conventions regarding forced labor, as noted by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-26 06:08:35 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/discipline-citoyennete-emploi-les.html