The Republic of Madagascar is located in East Africa and is made up of Madagascar and smaller islands.  Throughout its history, Madagascar hosted the mingling of Indian Ocean and African civilizations.  Madagascar was one of the last places to be inhabited by humans, with settlers arriving in the AD 350 and 550.  The island was a pirate stronghold during the 17^th and 18^th centuries, and at the same time, a native Merina Kingdom dominated the island.  In the late 18^th centuries the French invaded and made it a colony in its empire; independence was regained in 1960. 

Since gaining independence in 1960, the country of Madagascar has been marred by numerous political protests, impeachment, military coups, and an assassination. Political instability has led to a struggling economy and human rights concerns in the country for years.

Madagascar is a member of the United Nations, Southern African Development Community (SADC), Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, and the African Union. It is considered one of the least developed countries in the world. The country is broken into six provinces; Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, Mahajanga, Toamasina and Toliara.

The country is a  semi-presidential representative democratic, and multi-party republic. The President is elected by popular vote and selects a Prime Minister. Executive power lies with the executive and legislative power belongs to the ministerial cabinet. The President is elected to a five-year term, by popular vote.

The Judiciary branch is similar to the French system. There is a High Constitutional Court, and High Court of Justice. There’s also a Supreme court, Courts of Appeal, Criminal Tribunals, and the Tribunals of First Appearance.

Madagascar accepts compulsory UN International Court of Justice jurisdiction with reservations.

Visitors to the National Law Review will find the latest news coverage and stories as they relate to Madagascar and the country’s international affairs. Topics including international travel and immigration news, development of a common market system, visa programs, and international affairs, are among the topics visitors can read about online. Additionally, content which relates to Africa and the country’s international relations with other countries around the world, are covered by the National Law Review for its readers as well.