Madagascar has emerged victorious at the third international children’s song contest “Our Generation” held in Moscow. The young Malagasy singers, Michella, Brenda, and Riantsoa, won over the audience and jury with their song “Fianarana foana,” which translates to “Keep Studying.” This marks the second consecutive victory for Madagascar, following their win in the popular vote last year. Russia and Kenya secured the second and third positions, respectively, in the 2025 competition.

The contest featured 16 participating countries, including China, South Africa, Uganda, Ethiopia, and the United States, which made its debut this year. “Our Generation” was created by Russia in 2023 as an alternative to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest. The competition is open to children aged 9 to 16 and is described by organizers as an “educational programme” that eliminates political aspects.

The European Broadcasting Union banned Russia from participating in Eurovision after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. In response, Russia has launched its own singing competitions, including the revival of the Soviet-era Intervision Music Contest, which features singers from 23 countries. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has dismissed the event as “an instrument of hostile propaganda.”

The “Our Generation” contest aims to provide a platform for young singers to showcase their talents, promoting cultural exchange and education. With its second win, Madagascar has demonstrated its musical prowess, and the competition is likely to continue gaining popularity globally. As the contest continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how it evolves and whether it can maintain its neutral stance amidst geopolitical tensions. The event’s organizers and participants will be closely watched as they navigate the complexities of international relations and cultural exchange.