Tensions persist between the government and the European Union a month after revelations surfaced regarding the Malagasy government’s request for the recall of the EU ambassador following public criticisms, notably concerning the law authorizing surgical castration. Addressing the issue for the first time, the Malagasy Minister of Foreign Affairs held a press conference to elucidate the reasons behind this request.
Amid Europe Week in Madagascar, the presence of the EU flag has notably diminished, with all related events canceled due to strained relations. The EU delegation indicated that the ambassador would, however, host a reception commemorating Europe Day, albeit in the Comoros (another country within her portfolio).
After a month of silence amidst the flurry of reactions triggered by the incident, the Malagasy government, through its Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rafaravavitafika Rasata, finally provided official explanations on Monday. “In the realm of diplomatic relations, there are strict rules to adhere to, including refraining from meddling in the internal affairs of a country. The reason we requested the replacement of the European ambassador is due to interference in the internal affairs of the Malagasy state,” asserted Rasata.
According to the Malagasy diplomatic chief, “This is not the first time Madagascar has requested the recall of an ambassador.” However, Rasata emphasizes, “I want you to know that collaboration with the European Union continues. This has been confirmed by the signing of the new cooperation agreement known as Samoa.”
The EU expresses regret over “divergences in the interpretation of certain international conventions.”
This agreement, signed at the end of 2023 to replace the expiring Cotonou Agreement, establishes a strengthened political partnership between the European Union and African states. “It aims to produce mutually beneficial outcomes while upholding shared values,” emphasizes the European Union. Among these values are the defense of multilateralism, human rights, and good governance.
“In this context,” states the European Union, “we regret the divergences in the interpretation of certain international conventions regarding human rights that prompted the Malagasy authorities to request the replacement of our ambassador.”
To date, no decisions have been made regarding potential repercussions. However, development aid packages and collaboration modalities could be under review. This is the request made by eight influential Malagasy civil society organizations. In a letter to Brussels, they express deep concern about the deterioration of governance and democracy in Madagascar, illustrated by what they perceive as an “unjust and defamatory verdict.”