09 Jan 2019 | 12:05 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Clashes leave one dead in Dhaka garment workers' protest Jan. 8 /update 1
Clashes between garment workers and police leave one dead and at least 50 others wounded during protests in Dhaka January 8; similar demonstrations expected over the coming days
Event
Garment workers protested in Dhaka and its environs for a third consecutive day on Tuesday, January 8, demanding higher wages, among other requests. The workers reportedly staged demonstrations in Dhaka's Mirpur, Uttara, Uttarkhan, and Dhakshinkhan areas, as well as in Savar, Gazipur, and Ashulia on the outskirts of the capital. Protesters obstructed roads, notably including the route to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in the Abdullahpur area of Uttara. Clashes between protesters and police left one demonstrator dead and at least 50 others wounded, including over a dozen police officers.
Similar demonstrations are to be expected over the coming days. A heightened security presence and significant transportation disruptions are to be anticipated near protest sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
Garment workers are demanding a higher minimum wage, proper notification of layoffs, and increased wages for older workers.
Advice
Individuals in Dhaka and the surrounding areas are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, maintain flexible itineraries, and anticipate further public demonstrations, a heightened security presence, and transportation disruptions in the affected areas, including on the airport road.
