The Zafimaniry people, known as the 'People of the Forest,' are facing significant challenges due to deforestation and globalization, which are altering their traditional lifestyle. Located in Madagascar's central highlands, this community, comprised of fewer than 15,000 members, has long relied on the forest for sustenance, culture, and identity. However, decades of heavy deforestation have stripped away much of their natural environment, leaving the landscape vulnerable and impacting how they live and work.

In light of these changes, the Zafimaniry are being compelled to adapt to a new reality that diverges from their traditional practices. Their iconic carved wooden homes and artisanal woodcraft, which were celebrated as UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage in 2008, are now at risk. The community is grappling with the loss of their forest-based resources, leading to difficult decisions about their identity and future. These matters were the focus of a public debate held in Antananarivo, organized by the French Institute of Madagascar, which sought to explore cultural identity amidst the struggles of globalization.

The implications of these discussions extend beyond cultural preservation; they highlight the urgent need for sustainable development practices that protect both the environment and the livelihoods of indigenous communities. As the Zafimaniry confront these dramatic shifts, their story serves as a poignant reminder of the broader global challenges of cultural erasure and environmental degradation, necessitating both local and international attention.