Violence in Bangladesh has erupted as student-led protests against government job quotas have resulted in deadly clashes and a nationwide internet blackout. The protests began as a demand for quota reform but escalated into widespread unrest. The main protest organiser, Students Against Discrimination, has suspended protests for 48 hours in hopes of government concessions.
With at least 163 fatalities, including police officers, diplomatic concerns have arisen over the country’s response to the protests. Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud faced criticism from US Ambassador Peter Haas for presenting a one-sided view of events to diplomats. The unrest has drawn international attention, with Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus calling for an end to the violence.
The Supreme Court has reduced reserved job quotas, but protesters seek further reforms. With a large portion of Bangladesh’s youth unemployed, the issue remains a significant concern. The violence has left cities under curfew and the flow of information severely restricted, prompting calls for peaceful resolution from both local and international stakeholders.