Racism in Madagascar: Understanding the Complexities and Realities

The Question of Racism in Madagascar:
As the title suggests, the question of racism in Madagascar is complex and often misunderstood. This article aims to unpack the nuances and realities surrounding race, ethnicity, and discrimination in Madagascar, specifically focusing on the Merina and Betsileo ethnic groups.

Understanding the Societal Makeup of Madagascar

Diversity and Ethnic Composition:
Madagascar, a country with a rich cultural heritage, is home to a diverse array of ethnic groups. There are 18 indigenous ethnic groups in Madagascar. Among these, the Merina and Betsileo are the largest and most powerful, accounting for a significant portion of the population, especially in the capital, Antananarivo.

Merina people, who make up about 35% of the African ancestry and 65% of the Austronesian ancestry, and the Betsileo, who are equally mixed with a 50-50 split, form a significant proportion of the population. Yet, it's important to highlight that there are over 16 Black ethnic groups present in the country, which, despite their presence, often face discrimination.

Merina and Betsileo Ethnic Groups and Discrimination

Self-Identification and Perceptions:
One of the key factors contributing to misunderstandings about racism in Madagascar is the self-identification of the Merina and Betsileo. Despite their African ancestry, they often identify themselves as 'Asians' and deny their African heritage. This denial stems from a complex blend of historical and cultural narratives, but it does not negate the realities of racial discrimination.

The Merina and Betsileo often perceive Black people as 'inferior,' but this is more accurately described as a modern-day form of colonization, akin to apartheid. They seek to preserve their dominance culturally, economically, and politically, which often means pushing Black people into marginalized positions.

Economic and Political Discrimination

Economic Practices and Discrimination:
Economic discrimination is another major facet of the racial dynamics in Madagascar. Most of the key public administration jobs, higher education institutions, and major economic enterprises in Madagascar are dominated by the Merina and Betsileo ethnic groups. This excludes the 16 Black ethnic groups from significant economic opportunities and leaves them subject to various forms of cultural restrictions and demographic stresses.

Historically, before the Merina coup in 1972, there was a balance of power in the business landscape. White Caucasians and Asians held a significant number of businesses, while the 16 Black ethnic groups were largely absent from this economic equation. After the Merina takeover, all the larger businesses were nationalized, and many were sold to Merina businessmen at discounted prices, effectively ousting the White Caucasian and Asian entrepreneurs.

Policy and Social Impact

Post-1972 Policies and Their Impact:
Following the coup, the Merina General Gabriel Ramanantsoa expelled White Caucasians and Asian peoples from the country. This expulsion, coupled with economic nationalization, reshaped Madagascar's economic and social structure, further marginalizing the Black ethnic groups.

Despite policies aimed at inviting Asian and White Caucasian businessmen back in the 1980s, the economic landscape of Madagascar remained largely dominated by the Merina and Betsileo. Today, the 10 richest individuals in the country include a mix of Merina, Indo-Pakistani, and White Caucasian entrepreneurs, highlighting the continued dominance of these ethnic groups in the economic sector.

Consequences and Implications

Challenges and Future Directions:
The systemic exclusion and discrimination faced by the 16 Black ethnic groups in Madagascar have severe social, economic, and cultural consequences. It's crucial to address these issues through policy reform, increased awareness, and community engagement to foster a more equitable and inclusive society.

Understanding the complexities of racism and discrimination in Madagascar is essential for effective grassroots movements, international aid, and policy-making. Only through a nuanced approach can we hope to address these issues and bring about real change.