Protests in Bangladesh
Dear donors, You may have received some disturbing news from Bangladesh. Student protests began last month demanding an end to quotas in government jobs. Clashes with the army and police have left over 200 people dead. Schools have been temporarily closed, but children are safe. (article updated 9.9.2024)
Last week, the protests turned into a wider anti-government movement demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid. Another 95 protesters and 13 policemen have been killed. A curfew is in place and internet and telephone access is restricted.
Situation in schools
Despite the unrest, all children receiving support are safe and no children have been injured. Children attending village schools are at home and most boarding school children are in boarding schools. We continue to monitor the situation and will keep you informed of any significant developments.
We can only hope that the situation in Bangladesh calms down soon and that there are as few casualties as possible.
Update 8.9.2024
The interim government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus has completed its first month in office. It has introduced a number of reforms and administrative changes aimed at restoring order after a turbulent political period.
There have been significant changes in various areas, particularly in the legal, judicial and corruption investigations. The government has focused on improving law and order, fighting corruption and addressing public demands, while dealing with protests arising from the transition of power.
Good news: Bangladeshi schools are open, children are safe.
Update 8.8.2024
The new interim government of Bangladesh, led by its Chief Advisor Dr Muhammad Yunus, has been sworn in by President Mohammed Shahabuddin. The main tasks of the interim government are restoring order, fighting corruption and preparing the country for democratic elections.
Update 7.8.2024
Good news: Bangladeshi schools have reopened!
Nobel Peace Prize winning economist Muhammad Yunus (84) was appointed today to head the interim government. More names are expected later today or tomorrow. The decision to appoint Professor Yunus as the chief advisor to the interim government followed a meeting between President Mohammed Shahabuddin and military officials and student leaders.
However, the situation in Bangladesh is not yet fully stabilised.
Update 6.8.2024
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid resigned and left the country on Monday 5 August. Parliament was dissolved on Tuesday 6 August. Bangladesh faces the challenge of forming an interim government to lead the country to democratic elections. Curfew has been lifted. Internet access is stable. The US, UN and other countries are calling for a peaceful transfer of power. More than 400 people are reported to have died in the unrest.
Dhaka, Illustrative Photo
