In a debriefing to the UN special rapporteur on environment and human rights last week, the research and publication centre on relations between the third world and Europe (CETIM) denounced abusive expropriations of Malagasy rural land owners. These expropriations mainly profit international mining companies and precious wood smugglers.

“Many farmers are displaced, moved or sacked from their own lands regardless of land legislation which recognizes customary rights. From the North to the South of Madagascar, mining and agro-industrial firms get operating permits to the detriment of biodiversity,” said CETIM.

Expressing himself on the matter, the general secretary of the ministry of environment admitted that efforts made to put an end to wood smuggling are yet to bear fruits. However, the official denied the illegal awarding of mining permits. “The lands can only be awarded to the firms after all involved parties have met and discussed,” including locals, he told RFI.

Souha Touré