Children need to return to classes after weeks of unrest and uncertainty – Save the Children 

DHAKA, 13 August 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 organisation is urging the new administration to prioritise 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 organisations and businesses, we respond to major emergencies, deliver development programmes and ensure that children’s voices are heard through our campaigning to build a better future.

ENDS

For further information please contact:  

Rachel Thompson, Regional Media Manager (Asia): rachel.thompson@savethechildren.org  

Amy Sawitta Lefevre, Global Media Manager (Asia): amy.lefevre@savethechildren.org  

Our media out of hours (BST) contact is media@savethechildren.org.uk / +44(0)7831 650409