Bangladesh: Unionized private medical trainees to stage indefinite strike and related road blockade in Dhaka from July 16 /update 1

Event

Unionized private medical trainees plan to stage an indefinite strike in Dhaka from July 16 to demand higher pay. Although unlikely, the work stoppage may cause minor health service disruptions at some private medical facilities. As part of their action, strike participants plan to gather in the vicinity of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University at 09:00 and then block the adjacent Shahbagh Road intersection starting at 10:00. Additional gatherings of varying types are possible during the labor action and may occur near medical facilities, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Strike organizers may call off the action on short notice.

Authorities will likely monitor the protest activity and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions.

Context

Unionized private medical trainees initially called for an indefinite work stoppage from July 8. Strike organizers then called off the labor action following guarantees from government officials that they would include Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the collective bargaining process. On July 15, union leaders announced plans to reinitiate the strike after perceiving that the government had reneged on its assurances.

Advice

Confirm medical service appointments in advance during the labor action. Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time in areas impacted by protest activity. Heed all official transport and security advisories.