Children in Bangladesh Need to Return to Classes After Weeks of Unrest and Uncertainty

DHAKA, (August 13, 2024) - Children need to return to schools and colleges, be protected from violence, and no longer be allowed to work as traffic controllers, said Save the Children as the interim government begins work.

The child rights organization is urging the new administration to prioritize the rights and needs of children after weeks of unrest and uncertainty. For the last week, some children and students have stepped in to direct traffic in many cities, filling the void left by police.

Save the Children in Bangladesh said:  
“Save the Children applauds the children of Bangladesh who have been demanding their rights to a more equitable future and a voice in decisions that affect their lives. We also grieve with the families who lost their loved ones in the recent unrest.

Many children are receiving treatment for injuries or trying to cope with mental trauma. In addition to urgent medical treatment, we urge that the mental health support needs of all children be addressed as a priority. We also urge the new government to ensure that all children are safe from violence and discrimination and that their rights to quality education and healthcare are upheld.

While we laud the efforts of children and young people trying to keep others safe, Save the Children is concerned about the health and safety of the children currently managing traffic on roads across the country.  We, therefore, urge the new government to deploy the police and traffic sergeants in their full capacity.

Children need security, stability and certainty. They need to be in the classroom, not facing violence or on the streets directing traffic.”  
Save the Children has been working in Bangladesh for more than 50 years. Together with government, civil society organizations and businesses, we respond to major emergencies, deliver development programs, and ensure children’s voices are heard through our campaigning to build a better future.
###