Madagascar’s Parliament has approved a law permitting chemical and, in certain cases, surgical castration for individuals convicted of raping minors. The legislation was passed on February 2, with the Senate, the nation’s upper house, endorsing it last week. 
The final steps involve ratification by the High Constitutional Court and the enactment into law, a process requiring the signature of President Andry Rajoelina. Notably, President Rajoelina initially raised the issue in December, and his government proposed the amendment to existing laws.
Support and criticism for the new law
The move has prompted criticism from international rights groups, but activists within the country have voiced support for it. These activists argue that the measure serves as an appropriate deterrent to combat a “rape culture”.
Justice Minister Landy Mbolatiana Randriamanantenasoa stated that the measure is deemed necessary due to a surge in instances of child rape. She highlighted that in 2023 alone, there were 600 recorded cases of minors being raped, with an additional 133 cases reported in January of this year.
Ms. Randriamanantenasoa emphasized, “Our aim is to provide enhanced protection for children. The severity of punishment increases with the age of the child.”
However, human rights group Amnesty International condemned the law as “inhuman and degrading,” asserting that it contradicts the constitutional laws of the island nation. An Amnesty adviser further highlighted the problematic nature of surgical castration, particularly if individuals who undergo the procedure are subsequently acquitted of the crime upon appeal.
Only way to eradicate Rape
Now it seems that the only remaining option for Madagascar to eradicate rape from the country is for lawmakers to make this decision, supported by the people. 
On January 24, 2024, the bill proposing the inclusion of chemical and surgical castration in the Malagasy Penal Code as a punishment for those convicted of raping minors was submitted to the Malagasy National Assembly for approval.
The National Assembly endorsed it on February 2, 2024, and the Senate followed suit on February 7, 2024. The bill must now undergo review by the Supreme Constitutional Court before President Andry Rajoelina can sign the new amendments into law.
Amnesty International strongly urges the Malagasy authorities to align the amendments with human rights standards, prioritizing the well-being, rights, and needs of survivors.
