Bangladesh: Further student rallies likely nationwide through mid-July /update 4

Unionized students will likely continue protesting across Bangladesh through at least mid-July. The action is to demand reform of the public employment quota system and address perceived concerns over its fairness and implementation criteria. In recent days, activists have staged various types of protests, including road blockades and sit-ins, near several locations, including university campuses and transportation hubs.

Such actions have caused significant transport disruptions along major roads and highways, especially near university campuses and Dhaka's Chankharpool, Kawran Bazar, Motijheel, Nilkhet, Science Lab, and Shahbagh areas. On July 10, participants will observe a nationwide rail and road blockade campaign 06:00-22:00. Organizers have asserted that the movement of emergency services will not be impeded.

Further protest activities of varying types, including transport blockades, are highly likely to continue across Bangladesh. Counterdemonstrations by opposing groups could occur at short notice. Participation will vary by sponsoring entity and locale, with the potential of attracting several thousand participants. Activists typically hold marches between university squares and major intersections or public squares. In Dhaka, potential gathering sites include the Dhaka and Jagannath university campuses, Raju Memorial Sculpture, and the Shahbagh area.

Officials will almost certainly maintain an increased security presence near gatherings and may use force, including baton charges and tear gas, to disperse unruly crowds. Authorities could also refuse permission for events or implement temporary public gathering restrictions. Clashes between protesters and police and between supporters of opposing groups are possible. Isolated security incidents, including arson and vandalism, cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely.