Bangladesh: Nationwide strike and protest in Dhaka by unionized teachers continue as of July 19 /update 1

Event

A strike by secondary school teachers affiliated with the Bangladesh Teachers' Association continues across Bangladesh as of July 19. The purpose of the action is to demand the nationalization of secondary education, citing employment benefits differences between the public and private sectors. The nationwide action started on July 17. In Dhaka, activists have been staging a sit-in protest at the National Press Club since July 11, and participation in this action has reportedly reached the hundreds.

Authorities will likely deploy additional security in the vicinity of the protest site. Localized transport disruptions are likely due to the presence of large crowds. Isolated skirmishes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Exercise caution and allow additional travel time if operating nearby the protest site. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area.