The situation in Bangladesh remains dire and alarming for everyone residing in the country. In a high-handed response to widespread protests, the government has shut down all means of communication, including landlines and the internet. While landline facilities were partially resumed, the internet was shut down till 23rd August. Even that was only partially restored. Without proper means of communication, it is difficult to assess the full extent of the situation. However, reports suggest that more than 100 people have been killed and scores injured, including a number of students. 

PSI unequivocally condemns the repressive and violent actions taken by the government of Bangladesh to shut down protests. Freedom of association and communication are essential for a functioning democracy, and both are under attack in Bangladesh. The protesters have demanded that the practice of reserving more than 50% of public service positions for designated groups should end. As the global union representing public services workers, we recognise that reservations or quotas are sometimes useful. However, this form of affirmative action should be used to address historic discrimination and exclusion based on gender, class, ethnicity, disability, etc. It must not be used to reward political allies or to award financial gains.  

The Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has determined that 93% of public service positions should be filled without reservation. The government should immediately implement this decision through social dialogue with public services unions.   

“We condemn the government's brutal crackdown on students and trade unionists. We strongly demand that the government withdraw the army curfew and initiate negotiations immediately. The government should ensure the safe return of students to the universities with security,” said Nargis Jahan, PSI Titular for South Asia. 

Trade unionists, including PSI affiliates, have also come under severe attack by the government. Bangladesh was recently listed as one of the most dangerous places for trade unionism by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). According to the ITUC, Bangladesh is one of the 10 worst countries in the world for working people. Peaceful protests by workers have faced violent crackdowns, and trade unionists have been killed for raising workers’ demands. For many days, we were unable to contact our affiliates. Finally, some limited contacts have been established, but there are fears that calls are being monitored. 

Quality public services (QPS) are the backbone of a just and prosperous society. Public service workers perform essential services that constitute fundamental rights for the people. While thousands of workers delivering public services in Bangladesh are doing extraordinary work under difficult conditions, their work is undermined when the public believes that positions are gained politically and when workers do not enjoy the right to association and communication. The situation also highlights the need for an effective whistleblowing system.