A resolution from the national youth consultation proposes a series of reforms affecting virtually all key sectors of the country. From governance to economics, through education and public services, it outlines a comprehensive refoundation of the State.
Sixty-one points emerged from the national youth consultation held last week at the International Conference Centre (CCI) in Ivato. Though overshadowed by debate over unitary versus federal state structures, these points outline a comprehensive project for the country's refoundation.
Far from being a simple list of demands, the document functions as a roadmap built around several pillars: institutions, economy, social issues, and national identity. It compiles youth aspirations and what they believe should be the main focus areas for refoundation.
On institutional matters, beyond the state structure, the resolution proposes a "tricameral" Parliament, adding a Youth Parliament to the two traditional chambers.
The economic component holds significant importance. Youth denounce wealth concentration and call for better distribution of opportunities. Banning raw material exports features prominently, with the resolution calling for "mandatory local transformation." Youth also propose prioritizing national actors, stating they "demand limiting strategic entrepreneurial activities accessible to foreign investors in favor of nationals."
Other economic demands include "reforming the Investment Code to prioritize local employment and increase public investment in sustainable transport infrastructure to open up agricultural production zones."
Employment remains central to youth concerns. Participants emphasize cleaning up recruitment processes, ending discriminatory or opaque practices, and promoting merit-based advancement, particularly in public service. However, the resolution also demands "regional quotas in administrative competitions."
In social matters, the resolution prioritizes improving access to basic services: drinking water, electricity, health, and digital infrastructure. Education emerges as a strategic lever for equitable human and socio-economic development across the territory, with proposals to adapt the education system to labor market realities and strengthen technical and vocational programs.
The resolution also addresses identity and national sovereignty, promoting Malagasy as the sole official language as an element of cohesion and cultural affirmation. It calls for national policies on Malagasy language, national heritage, and sports, with adequate budgets for youth sports development and infrastructure.
The document further addresses corruption and environmental governance.