Bangladesh
Gen Z-led protests against government job quotas and corruption escalated into a national crisis, resulting in mass arrests, hundreds of deaths, and the prime minister’s resignation.
Duration: June–August 2024
Following the installation of a quota-based system for government jobs favoring descendants of the nation’s freedom fighters, Gen Z youth mobilized protests via social media in 2024. Demonstrators protested against the quota and government corruption, mobilizing in thousands throughout Bangladesh. Protesters were met with inflammatory comments from officials, police violence, and attacks from a government-affiliated youth group, leading to the deaths of at least 400 people, thousands more injuries, and the arrests of 10,000 people. Following intense protests, Bangladesh’s prime minister resigned and an interim government was stood up to help the nation prepare for elections in 2026.
Physical & Lethal Force
Police violence, attacks from a government-affiliated youth group, and lethal force were used against demonstrators.
Mass Arrests & Legal Repression
Authorities arrested roughly 10,000 people during the protest movement and related crackdowns.
Internet, Platform & Narrative Control
Internet restrictions, platform disruption, digital surveillance, and official narratives were used to limit and discredit protest activity.
Movement Images
