Government: Constitution approved August 19, 1992 by national vote. Constitution establishes separation of powers among administrator, legislative, and judicial branches; multiparty political system; and protection of human rights and freedom of speech. President elected by universal vote for five-year time with two-term limit. Prime minister nominated by bicameral parliament composed of Senate and National Assembly, and approved by president. Supreme Court has eleven members and forms apex of other judicial bodies. Local government consists of twenty-eight regions with decentralized powers in economic field.

Politics: In first legislative elections of Third Republic in 1993 more than 120 political parties entered 4,000 candidates for 138 seats. Proportional representation list system promotes candidacies. orthodox village council (fokonolona) system supplements modern political system.

Foreign Relations: Good relations with many countries, particularly France and the West; in post-Cold War era seeking diversified ties with East and West, including Arab countries and Far East.