The United Nations has condemned the use of force by security agencies against protesters in Madagascar, following weeks of unrest that have left several people dead and many others injured.
In a statement from Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said his office had received “troubling reports of continued violence against protesters by the gendarmerie, particularly in Antananarivo.” He urged authorities to “desist from unnecessary and disproportionate force and uphold the rights to free association and peaceful assembly.”
According to reports from Reuters, Associated Press, and News24, at least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 injured since demonstrations began in late September. The protests—led largely by young activists—started over electricity and water shortages but have evolved into broader calls for better governance and political reform.
President Andry Rajoelina has dissolved his government and imposed curfews, deploying additional security forces to contain the unrest. Critics, however, accuse the government of intensifying repression rather than addressing the protesters’ grievances.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over the situation, urging restraint and dialogue. He reminded Malagasy authorities of their obligations to protect the rights of citizens to peaceful protest and freedom of expression under international law.
The UN has called for independent investigations into the reported killings and for the release of protesters detained during the demonstrations.
