Bangladesh in 2024.

The 2024 Bangladesh quota reform movement was a series of anti-government[d] and pro-democracy[e] protests in Bangladesh, spearheaded primarily by university students. Initially focused on restructuring quota-based systems for government job recruitment, the movement expanded against what many perceived as an authoritarian government when they carried out the July massacre of protestors and civilians, most of whom were students.[f] Started as a student movement, the movement later escalated into a fully-fledged mass uprising known as the July Revolution.

The protest began in June 2024, in response to the Supreme Court of Bangladesh reinstating a 30% quota for descendants of freedom fighters, reversing the government decision made in response to the 2018 Bangladesh quota reform movement. Students began to feel like they have a limited opportunity based on merit. The protest quickly spread throughout the entire country because of the government's violent response, as well as growing public dissatisfaction against an oppressive government. The situation was further complicated by many other ongoing issues, like the government's inability to manage a prolonged economic downturn, reports of rampant corruption and human rights violations, and the absence of democratic channels for initiating changes.[ 83][84][85][86]

The government sought to suppress the protests by shutting down all educational institutions. They deployed their student wing, the Chhatra League, along with other factions of the Awami League party. These groups resorted to using firearms and sharp weapons against the demonstrators.[g] The government then deployed Police, RAB, BGB and other armed forces, declaring a nationwide shoot-at-sight curfew[h] amid an unprecedented government-ordered nationwide internet and mobile connectivity blackout that effectively isolated Bangladesh from the rest of the world.[i] Later, the government also blocked social media in Bangladesh.[ 2] Government forces cordoned of parts of the capital city of Dhaka and conducted Block Raids, randomly picking up anyone they suspected having links to the protest, causing fear among the city residents.[ 94] As of August 2, there were 215 confirmed deaths, more than 20,000 injuries,[95][36] and more than 11,000 arrests.[j] The unofficial death toll was between 300 and 500.[ 100] UNICEF reported that at least 32 children were killed during July's protests, with many more injured and detained.[ 101][102] Determining the exact number of deaths has been difficult because the government reportedly restricted hospitals from sharing information with the media without police permission, hospital CCTV footage was confiscated, and numerous individuals with gunshot wounds were buried without identification.[ 103][104][105]

The Awami League government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have suggested that political opponents have co-opted the protest.[ 106][107] Despite the curfew restrictions the movement remained ongoing as it expanded its demands to include accountability for violence, a ban on the student wing of the government Chhatra League, and resignation of certain government officials,[108] including the resignation of Prime Minister Hasina.[ 109] The government's use of widespread violence against the general public turned the student protest into a people's uprising known as the Non-Cooperation Movement.[k]

Background

Further information: Quota system of Bangladesh Civil Service

After the High Court ruled in favor of quotas on 5 June 2024, the students of various universities in DhakAs of now (May 2025), here’s what is known about Bangladesh in July 2024 in historical context:

Key Events in Bangladesh – July 2024

Political Climate and Pre-Election Activity:

In the months leading up to Bangladesh's January 2024 general elections, the political atmosphere was tense, but by July 2024, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, had already secured another term after the controversial elections.

July 2024 saw ongoing protests and criticism from opposition groups and international observers who alleged that the elections were not fully free or fair.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and allied groups continued to face restrictions on political activities, with many leaders either jailed or in hiding.

Economic and Development Issues:

Inflation and cost of living remained major concerns for ordinary citizens. In July 2024, prices of food and fuel continued to be a challenge, with the government implementing some subsidies and public assistance programs.

Bangladesh continued its push for graduation from LDC (Least Developed Country) status, with infrastructure and industrial development efforts continuing despite economic pressures.

Climate and Monsoon Season:

July is part of the monsoon season in Bangladesh. In 2024, heavy rains and flooding were reported in several parts of the country, particularly in Sylhet, Sunamganj, and Chattogram. This affected agriculture and displaced thousands.

Government and NGO response was significant but strained, highlighting ongoing challenges in climate resilience.

International Relations:

Bangladesh maintained strong ties with regional powers, including India and China, with key diplomatic visits and economic deals either signed or in negotiation.

There were continued discussions around Rohingya refugees, with no major progress on repatriation by July 2024. The refugee population in Cox’s Bazar remained one of the world's largest and most complex humanitarian challenges.

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