What's behind the recurrent unrest in Bangladesh? | Inside Story

Summary

The Bangladesh Supreme Court scales back a controversial quota system for government jobs, reducing reserved positions for war veterans and minorities. Despite the ruling, protests continue, fueled by frustration with rising inflation, high food prices, and perceived government corruption. Critics demand accountability from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and the unrest points to a deeper dissatisfaction with the governing Awami League.

Takeaways

• 🏛️ The Bangladesh Supreme Court has reduced a controversial quota system for government jobs, which previously favored war veterans and minorities, to appease widespread protests.
• 👨‍🎓 Initially student-led, the protests have expanded to include a broader population frustrated by rising inflation and high food prices.
• 🚨 Despite the Supreme Court's ruling, protests continue, indicating that the movement has grown beyond the quota issue to include broader grievances against the government.
• 📉 The government's response to the protests involved deploying the Army, enforcing a nationwide curfew, and cutting mobile and internet services to maintain security.
• 🗳️ Criticisms of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government include accusations of corruption, suppressing dissent, and a perceived legitimacy crisis following recent elections.
• 📉 The country has seen a downturn in economic conditions, with high unemployment and a significant youth population out of work or school.
• 🔍 There is a call for systemic change, with demands for accountability from the government, including an apology from the Prime Minister and the resignation of certain ministers.
• 👥 Arrests of student leaders, activists, and opposition figures have further exacerbated the situation, leading to increased resentment and anger among the protesters.
• 🌐 International reactions to the situation in Bangladesh have been mixed, with some partners showing support while others have raised concerns about democratic processes.
• 🇧🇩 There is potential for anti-India sentiment to rise in Bangladesh, as some citizens believe India is the strongest backer of Sheikh Hasina's government.
• 📚 The script highlights a disconnect between the state and the younger generation, who feel unheard and unrepresented in the political process.

Q & A

What was the main reason for the nationwide protests in Bangladesh?

The main reason for the nationwide protests in Bangladesh was the reinstatement of a controversial quota system for government jobs, which reserved more than half of the positions for minorities and relatives of veterans who fought for independence in 1971.

What did the Supreme Court of Bangladesh decide regarding the quota system?

The Supreme Court of Bangladesh scaled back the quota system for government jobs, reducing the share from 56% to 7%. This means 93% of the quota will be for the general public, 5% for Freedom Fighters and their relatives, 1% for ethnic minorities, and 1% for transgender and physically disabled applicants.

How did the government initially respond to the protests?

The government initially responded by deploying the Army to enforce a nationwide curfew and cutting mobile and internet services to ensure security. Dozens of student leaders, activists, and opposition figures were arrested.

What are some of the other root causes of the anger displayed in the protests?

Other root causes of the anger displayed in the protests include high inflation, rising food prices, and a disconnection between the state and the younger generation, particularly Generation Z, who feel their demands are not being heard by the government.

What was the government's reaction to the protests in terms of dialogue?

The government initially ridiculed, intimidated, and bullied the protesters. Later, the government invited students to talks and said they would welcome their proposals and put them up for discussion.

What are some of the specific demands from the student protesters?

The student protesters have eight specific demands, including identifying and investigating those involved in killing protesters, ending the killing unleashed by the government, releasing detained people, resolving fabricated cases, and bringing the quota system to a minimum in line with the Constitution.

What is the current unemployment rate in Bangladesh, and how does it affect the youth?

The unemployment rate in Bangladesh is nearly 20%, and the youth unemployment rate is over 80%. This high unemployment rate, especially among educated youth, is a significant source of frustration and anger.

How has the international community reacted to the situation in Bangladesh?

The international community has been relatively quiet. While the USA has raised some issues, Europe and other states have not made strong statements. India and China have been supportive of the current government.

What is the potential impact of the protests on Sheikh Hasina's government and her legitimacy?

The protests have underscored a legitimacy crisis for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The government's handling of the protests, including the use of force and the arrests, has further eroded public trust and could lead to increased calls for her resignation.

Is there a risk of anti-India sentiment growing in Bangladesh due to the perceived support for Sheikh Hasina?

There is a risk of anti-India sentiment growing in Bangladesh, as the public believes that India is Sheikh Hasina's strongest backer. This perception could lead to resentment and anger towards India.