Public Affairs Section
Promoting a Free and Independent Press The U.S. Mission works closely with the Malagasy media, helping to bring awareness and understanding about the relevant issues to both countries. The Public Affairs Section conducts multiple workshops annually in support of journalists, editors, and communication officers. The workshops focus on ethics and professionalism in journalism, running effective press offices, and reporting on topical issues such as health, environment, and women's issues. This section also sponsors an American Press center in Antananarivo and a satellite center in Antsiranana, in support of local journalists to provide greater access to information and resources. The objective of the press centers is to assist journalists in their efforts to increase their professionalism and to sharpen their journalism skills. Mutual Understanding The Public Affairs Section's takes a lead role in fostering mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the Republic of Madagascar. It produces and distributes publications to help Malagasy citizens better understand American culture, values, politics and economy. It also works with all Mission offices and agencies to better explain U.S. foreign and bilateral policies, as well as working towards a better understanding between citizens of the U.S. and Madagascar. An Educational Advising Center offers the full-range of research and reference materials for Malagasy students interested in pursuing their studies in the U.S. The Mission also sponsors the travel of U.S. experts to Madagascar to share their expertise on a variety of topical issues including, the environment, health, agriculture, democracy and economic development. Exchange Programs The Public Affairs Section oversees the Fulbright educational exchange program and the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship program. The Fulbright Program is one the world's most widely recognized and prestigious international exchange programs. The program actively seeks out individuals of achievement and potential who represent the full diversity of their respective societies and selects nominees through open, merit-based competitions. The Fulbright Program fosters the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and Malagasy governments to set joint priorities and shape the program to meet shared needs. The Humphrey Fellowship is a professional development program designed to encourage leadership in fields critical to economic and political development. The Humphrey Fellows are placed in universities throughout the U.S. in a 10-month long specifically designed program of study and training. The American Information Center The American Information Center is a resource library that houses hundreds of books and reference materials designed to provide Malagasy citizens with a better understanding of American culture, history, politics, and economy. With a staff of trained librarians who provide resource and reference assistance and conduct training for their fellow librarians, this center is open to the general public. American Corners Opening a Window to America - The American Corner is a resource library located outside of the capital city and designed to bring a stronger American presence to those who have limited or no exposure to American culture. The goal of American Corners is to bring the true story of the United States to the people, maintaining an open dialogue, and building bridges of understanding. The U.S. Mission to Madagascar sponsors two American Corners in Mahajanga and in Antsiranana. The American Corners in Madagascar consist of collections of books, magazines, and databases from and about the United States. Resources found at the American Corners help individuals expand their skills and understand American values.
Contact for the Public Affairs Section:
14 - 16 Rue Rainitovo Antsahavola
101 - Antananarivo
Tel: (261) (20) 22 212 57 /58
Fax: (261) (20) 22 345 39
e-mail: pasantan@state.gov.



