Historical Context
Bangladesh has a rich history of political activism and uprising . It dates back to its struggle for independence from Pakistan in 1971. Over the years, the country has seen various movements, often led by students and civil society, demanding democratic reforms and social justice. The recent political unrest is rooted in long-standing grievances and systemic issues that have been simmering for years.
What Actually Happened?
In early July 2024, peaceful protests began in Bangladesh, primarily led by university students. Their initial demand was the abolition of the quota system in civil service jobs. Which reserved a significant portion of positions for descendants of freedom fighters from the 1971 war. This system was seen as discriminatory and a barrier to employment for many young graduates1.
As the protests gained momentum, they evolved into a broader anti-government movement. The situation escalated dramatically when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned. As she fled the country on August 5, 2024, after weeks of intense protests and violent clashes1. Her departure marked the end of her 15-year rule Which many critics described as increasingly autocratic1.
Why Did It Happen?
These protests were fueled by multiple factors:
- Economic Discontent: Despite being one of the fastest-growing economies, Bangladesh’s economic growth had not translated into sufficient job opportunities for its youth. High unemployment rates among university graduates exacerbated frustrations1.
- Political Grievances: The quota system in civil service jobs was a significant point of contention. The High Court’s ruling in June 2024, which deemed the abolition of the quota system illegal, reignited the protests2.
- Government Response: The government’s heavy-handed response, including internet shutdowns, curfews, and the use of force against protesters, further inflamed public anger1.
How Did It Happen?
The protests began peacefully but quickly turned violent. The Bangladesh Chhatra League, the armed wing of the ruling Awami League, and the Rapid Action Battalion, a controversial paramilitary group, were deployed to suppress the protests. This led to violent clashes, resulting in hundreds of deaths and injuries2. The situation worsened when a video of a university student being killed by security forces went viral, sparking nationwide outrage2.
Role of the Military and High Court
Military give ultimatum to then Prime minister to resign and provide a 45 min window for Sheikh Hasina to flee the country. After the resignation of Sheikh Hasina the military played a crucial role in maintaining order . They stepped in to fill the power vacuum and ensure stability. . The High Court’s ruling on the quota system was a catalyst for the protests. It highlighting the judiciary’s significant influence on political developments2.
Way Forward for Bangladesh
The new interim government in Bangladesh is led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. It faces several significant challenges following the recent political upheaval that led to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina12. Bangladesh now is at a critical juncture. The interim government must address the root causes of the unrest, including economic disparities and political grievances. Reforms in the civil service quota system and measures to create more job opportunities for the youth are essential. Additionally, ensuring accountability for the violence and human rights abuses during the protests will be crucial for restoring public trust.
The path ahead is challenging, but with inclusive dialogue and meaningful reforms, Bangladesh can navigate this crisis and emerge stronger.
