Bangladesh: Student protests dwindle beginning August 7 /update 5

Event

Following nine days of large protests that shut down significant sections of Dhaka and culminated with violent clashes, student protesters largely returned to classes on Tuesday, August 7, effectively ending the demonstrations. Government education officials reported that students had returned to their classes and media reports indicate that traffic has largely returned to normal in the capital. As of noon (local time) on Wednesday, August 8, there have not been signs of protests resuming, though the possibility of smaller student protests remains in the coming days.

Context

Protests began on July 29 after two students were killed in an accident caused by a speeding bus. Tens of thousands of students staged daily demonstrations until Monday, August 6, resulting in violent clashes between protesters and security forces. The demonstrations were concentrated in Dhaka, particularly in the Shahbagh area, though related protests were also reported in nearby cities, including Gazipur, Narayanganj, Mymensingh, and Chittagong. According to the private research group National Committee to Protect Shipping, Roads, and Railways, more than 4200 pedestrians were killed in road traffic accidents in 2017.

Advice

Individuals in Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. In the event of resumed protests, travelers are advised to anticipate significant transportation disruptions, plan for alternate routes, and never attempt to cross a roadblock without authorization.