Madagascar: Chaque voix compte : respectez les gens !

This media production is a ten‑minute television report broadcast on Télévision nationale de Madagascar (TVM), focusing on the lived realities of three LGBTIQ individuals who chose to break their silence in a conservative and often stigmatising social environment. Madagascar remains strongly influenced by cultural and religious norms, and people who express diverse sexual orientations or gender identities frequently face widespread prejudice, misunderstanding, and discrimination.

The report highlights the experiences of three individuals whose identities have been misunderstood or rejected by broader society. These include a woman who has lived and been perceived as a boy since childhood in a religious school environment, a young woman who identifies as masculine while living openly with her partner, and a young man working in a call centre whose feminine expression has subjected him to judgment. Each testimony sheds light on the daily challenges of LGBTIQ people: persistent stereotypes, lack of recognition, and social exclusion.

The journalist’s intention was to give visibility to these experiences and to challenge the preconceived ideas held by many citizens. The report shows that the realities of LGBTIQ lives differ sharply from the assumptions made about them. Through this work, the journalist positioned herself as an intermediary between these individuals and the public, aiming to influence public opinion and contribute to a more informed, fair, and empathetic national discourse.

Given the sensitive nature of the topic, the production took a trauma‑informed and safety‑centred approach. Consent was prioritised, interviewees remained anonymous, and their faces were blurred to protect them from stigma, harassment, or retaliation. This ethical approach strengthened trust between the journalist and participants and allowed them to speak freely about their experiences.

While LGBTIQ representation has historically been very limited on TVM, the broadcast created a noticeable shift in awareness. The journalist observed increased engagement from citizens, journalists, jurists, human rights defenders, religious actors, and even members of the National Assembly. Though responses varied, the report succeeded in creating space for public reflection, dialogue, and debate — an essential step in a context where silence has often allowed stigma to persist.

The impact of the story is also visible within TVM. Previously, LGBTIQ issues were not covered on the national channel, but this report marked a new direction, demonstrating that responsible and ethical reporting can open doors for more inclusive programming. The coverage helped stimulate broader interest in LGBTIQ rights and encouraged colleagues to consider future stories addressing the rights and lived realities of LGBTIQ people.

Sustainability remains a priority. The journalist emphasised that awareness‑raising should continue to grow, both at TVM and across other media platforms such as RNM. She highlighted the need for stronger editorial support, enabling journalists to pursue stories that promote equality and human rights. Material and financial limitations remain a challenge, and partnerships with organisations such as Gender Links, UNFPA, and UNICEF would strengthen efforts to maintain quality reporting.

The report ultimately contributed to national conversations about equality and inclusion, reinforcing that every voice matters. It calls for continued journalistic commitment, resource support, and institutional openness so that media can play its role in shaping a more just, respectful, and inclusive Malagasy society.