Two Short Films, One Big Question: What Really Drives People and Forests to the Edge?

Film 1: Deforestation and the Scapegoat Narrative

Our first film explores the environmental pressures in areas like the Menabe region, which is at the forefront of forest degradation. A dominant narrative has emerged blaming incoming migrants as the main drivers of this deforestation.

Our research findings actively challenge this scapegoat narrative. While land clearing is a visible issue, our data shows that the role of migration in forest loss is limited and context-specific. The drivers of deforestation are structural: poverty, insecure or unequal land access, weak local governance, limited alternatives and market pressures. Policy should therefore avoid scapegoating migrants and instead strengthen land tenure, natural-resource governance and sustainable agricultural opportunities for both migrants and host communities.

Film 2: Migration as Adaptation, Not Abandonment

Our second film shifts the focus to  the harsh realities driving people from the South of Madagascar. Driven by severe drought, failing crops, and famine, many are forced to seek income and better livelihoods elsewhere.

However, the film challenges the idea that migration is a permanent departure. Instead, leaving is often a short-term adaptation to a difficult reality, functioning as a necessary risk carried by the whole family. The ties to land, family, and the homeland remain incredibly strong. For many, the ultimate goal is not to leave forever, but to acquire enough wealth and resources to eventually return and provide for their families back home.