Demonstration Alert – U.S. Embassy Dhaka, Bangladesh (May 14, 2018)
Location: Colleges and universities across Bangladesh
Event: Local sources report the potential for student demonstrations at colleges and universities across Bangladesh. The demonstrations would reportedly be in reaction to a Government of Bangladesh policy that allocates certain percentages (quotas) of civil service jobs to specific categories of individuals.
According to local news, some vehicles were torched and fighting broke out on the evening of April 8 during demonstrations near Dhaka University over the same issue. The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka encourages U.S. citizens to exercise caution, as demonstrations could continue for several days.
Demonstrations may or may not affect local transportation services, schools, shopping malls, and infrastructure. Previous protests in Bangladesh have turned violent, resulting in lengthy traffic disruptions, injuries, and deaths. Participants are known to throw rocks, debris, and small homemade explosive devices. Security forces are known to use tear gas and other crowd control measures against demonstrators, including firearms with rubber bullets. The U.S. Embassy’s Consular section will remain open for normal business.
Actions to Take:
• Monitor local news.
• Expect heavier than normal traffic congestion throughout the day.
• Avoid large crowds and protests.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.
Assistance:
• U.S. Embassy Dhaka, Bangladesh – (88) 02 5566 2000
• DhakaACS@state.gov
• bd.usembassy.gov
• State Department – Consular Affairs – 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
• Bangladesh Country Information
• Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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