The U.S. State Department elevated its travel advisory level for Bangladesh. The warning urges Americans to reconsider travel to the South Asian nation. It comes amid escalating civil unrest and a stringent police-imposed curfew.
The country is currently experiencing ongoing violent protests over the allocation of civil service jobs. The violence has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread chaos across the country.
According to the U.S. State Department, “Ongoing demonstrations and violent clashes have been reported throughout the city of Dhaka, its neighboring areas, and throughout Bangladesh.” The department also noted disruptions to telecommunications services and potential delays in routine consular services due to the volatile security situation.
What’s Behind Bangladesh’s Student Protests?
The protests, primarily led by student groups, began weeks ago. The students are in opposition to a quota system that reserves up to 30% of government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s 1971 War of Independence. The situation took a drastic turn when violence erupted, leading to a significant loss of life. ABC News reports suggest multiple deaths, with hundreds, possibly thousands, injured across the country.
In response to the escalating violence, Bangladeshi authorities imposed a “shoot-on-sight” curfew. The curfew was only briefly relaxed to allow for essential errands. Obaidul Quader, general secretary of the ruling Awami League party, stated that officers can fire on mobs in extreme cases. The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka described the situation as “extremely volatile” and advised American citizens to avoid demonstrations and political gatherings, monitor local media for updates, and maintain contact with the State Department.
The unrest has had far-reaching consequences. So far, there has been a reported escape of approximately 800 inmates from a prison in Narsingdi after protesters stormed and set fire to the facility. Additionally, authorities have blocked online communications by banning mobile and internet services. Several television news channels have also gone off the air, and many local newspaper websites are inaccessible. The chaos represents the most significant challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration since her controversial fourth consecutive term began following January’s elections, which main opposition groups boycotted.
The quota system at the heart of the protests has been a contentious issue. Demonstrators argue that it is discriminatory and favors supporters of Hasina’s Awami League party. They advocate for a merit-based system instead. Hasina has defended the quotas, citing the importance of honoring veterans’ contributions to the independence movement.
