Madagascar is a country in Eastern Africa, Africa. In 2025 it has about 32.7 million people (UN estimate), the 49th most people of the 193 UN member states.
UN member since 1960Population: 49th
Madagascarマダガスカル
Region
Eastern Africa, Africa
Population
about 32.7 million (49th)
Area
587,041 km² (45th)
UN member since
September 20, 1960
Ranks are among the 193 UN member states, from most people and from largest area.
Madagascar in numbers
In 2025 the population is about 32.7 million, the 49th most people of the 193 UN member states. That is about 1/3 of Japan’s (about 123 million).
The area is 587,041 km², the 45th largest of the 193. That is about 1.6 times Japan’s area.
If we work out the number of people per square kilometer (population density), it is about 56.
Joining the United Nations
Madagascar joined the United Nations on September 20, 1960.
That was 4 years after Japan joined in 1956.
13 other countries joined on the same day.
Think about it
Q1Compare Madagascar’s population rank and area rank. What do you notice?
Q2Find Madagascar on a map or globe. Which countries are around it?
Q3Choose one thing you want to know more about Madagascar, and look it up.
There is no single right answer. Talking it over with someone at home is a good way to learn.
Did you know? — There are 18 UN member states in Eastern Africa. The one with the most people is Ethiopia.