Madagascar President proposes reinstating national service

President Michaël Randrianirina has expressed support for reinstating national service in Madagascar, specifically a non-military version of the program. Speaking in Ihosy, the President stated that the initiative is intended to instill discipline, responsibility, and patriotism in the nation's youth, noting that young people currently lack sufficient discipline.

The Executive branch is currently studying the modalities for the program's implementation. While specific details regarding the schedule and practical application remain to be defined, the proposal seeks to revive a system originally established by a 1978 ordinance.

Historically, the mandatory national service involved Malagasy youth aged 18 to 31 participating in national defense as well as economic and social development. This included community and rural activities such as teaching, administrative assistance, and public works projects. Although a 1992 decree transitioned the service from mandatory to voluntary, the President's proposal suggests a return to a more structured national obligation.