Exodus of Comorans Following Anti-Comoran Riots

The exodus of Comorans from Madagascar was a direct response to anti-Comoran riots that erupted in Mahajanga. This period marked a significant moment of tension between the local Malagasy population and the Comoran community, leading to a wave of migration as many Comorans sought safety and stability elsewhere. The riots were fueled by underlying socio-political issues, including competition for resources and cultural differences, which exacerbated existing tensions. The aftermath saw a notable decline in the Comoran population in Madagascar, as many individuals and families left the country to escape the violence and hostility they faced. In contrast to the Comoran exodus, the emigration patterns of the Malagasy people have remained relatively stable, with no comparable mass migration recorded. The demographic landscape of Madagascar has also shifted over the years, with a significant decrease in the European population, dropping from over 68,000 in the late 1950s to approximately 17,000 three decades later. By the mid-1980s, the estimated population included around 25,000 Comorans, 18,000 Indians, and 9,000 Chinese, highlighting the diverse ethnic composition of Madagascar. This demographic change reflects broader trends of migration and settlement patterns influenced by historical events and socio-economic factors.