Bangladesh has plunged into political turmoil following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid a wave of violent protests that have rocked the nation. The unrest, which began in July 2024, has led to the deaths of over 200 people and has drawn widespread international condemnation.
The crisis was triggered when the Bangladeshi judiciary reinstated a controversial quota system that reserves 30% of government jobs for the descendants of veterans who fought in the country’s 1971 War of Independence. This decision sparked immediate outrage, particularly among students who saw the move as a threat to merit-based employment opportunities in a country already grappling with high youth unemployment.
What began as student-led protests over the job quota system quickly escalated into a nationwide civil disobedience campaign, with demonstrators demanding Hasina’s resignation. Accusations of government corruption, economic mismanagement, and the stifling of democratic freedoms further fueled the unrest.
The situation turned increasingly violent, with security forces clashing with protesters across the country. The government responded with curfews, internet shutdowns, and a heavy-handed crackdown that culminated in a particularly deadly day on August 4th, when at least 95 people, including 14 police officers, were killed in renewed clashes.
Amid mounting pressure and widespread condemnation, Prime Minister Hasina tendered her resignation on August 5th and reportedly fled to India. In her absence, Bangladesh’s military has assumed control, with General Waker-uz-Zaman promising to restore order and investigate the violence.
The international community has reacted strongly to the crisis. The United States and the European Union have criticized the Bangladeshi government’s suppression of free speech and the violent crackdown on protesters. In response to the developments, the EU has postponed negotiations on a new Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with Bangladesh, citing serious concerns over human rights and governance issues.
As Bangladesh navigates the aftermath of Hasina’s resignation, the country’s future remains uncertain. The export-driven economy, particularly reliant on the garment industry, could face significant challenges if Western nations impose sanctions or trade restrictions. The new leadership will need to carefully balance domestic stability with international relations to guide the country through this turbulent period.
