The constitution strongly provides for freedom of religion, prohibiting, "all discrimination based on race, place of origin, religious belief, education, wealth or sex." The government generally respects this right in practice. Most missionaries and clergy are permitted to operate freely.
One exception to the the governments general respect for religious freedom has been the denial of registration to an organization affiliated with the Unification Church. Likewise, Unificationist missionaries have been denied visas. A Protestant missionary whose last name is Moon was subjected to interrogation and harassment by the government because he was mistakenly believed to be affiliated with the Unification Church.
Some religious organizations have taken sides in the political contests within the country. The Kimbanguist church, numbering about 5000, has been denied permission to broadcast its services. the pastor of the church has been a suppoter of the leader of the opposition party.
2003 U.S. State Department International Religious Freedom Report on Madagascar
The Oslo Coalition on Freedom of Religion or Belief Report on Madagascar
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