Environmental civil society is once again sounding the alarm over the proliferation of illegal mining, forest fires, and the trafficking of protected species. More than 60 environmental and climate civil society organizations (OSCEC) are challenging authorities regarding the persistence of environmental crimes and the ineffectiveness of the law. An open letter has been sent to the President of the Republic of Madagascar and relevant institutions, highlighting the sense of impunity surrounding certain cases.
According to Ndranto Razakamanarina of the Alliance Voahary Gasy (AVG), these environmental offenses are on the rise and are not always prosecuted. He cited the case of the Makira protected area, where individuals were prosecuted for degradation, as well as for burning a village and community structure offices. The AVG official pointed out their release last August by the Court of First Instance of Maroantsetra.
Other areas, such as Andasibe-Mantadia and Ankeniheny-Zahamena, are also facing pressures linked to gold mining. For the signatory organizations, this situation reveals flaws in the chain of repression for environmental crimes. The problem is not only the existence of offenses but also the authorities’ ability to effectively enforce the law, from arrest to sentencing.
Civil society also denounces the limited resources dedicated to protecting natural resources. According to figures provided by the organizations, budget allocations represent only 1.2% for Environment and Forests, 0.3% for Fisheries, and 0.1% for Mines. They argue these resources are insufficient for the challenges Madagascar faces.
In light of this, civil society has made several recommendations. They are calling on the Ministry of Economy and Finance to increase the budget for the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development to strengthen the fight against bushfires and forestry offenses. Without emergency measures, they warn that Madagascar risks losing 93% of its 1950 forest cover by 2050.
To influence decision-making, the 60 organizations have established the Confederation of Environmental Civil Society Organizations of Madagascar. This group aims to carry a common roadmap, define advocacy priorities, and collaborate with authorities for the country’s development, citizen well-being, and the preservation of biodiversity.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-08 17:53:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/crimes-environnementaux-les-organisations-de-la-societe-civile-interpellent-les-autorites-sur-limpunite-face-aux-crimes-environnementaux/