Maldives Government Issues Travel Advisory for Bangladesh Amid Civil Unrest

This follows the Bangladesh Supreme Court's recent decision to reinstate a quota system for government jobs, overturning a 2018 decision by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's administration to abolish it.

Since the court's ruling, demonstrations have erupted across Bangladesh, escalating into nationwide unrest. Reports indicate that at least 114 people have lost their lives in the ensuing turmoil.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it is closely monitoring the situation of Maldivian citizens in Bangladesh. The Maldives High Commission in Bangladesh has so far assisted over 90 Maldivians, including students, families, and others currently in the country.

The High Commission has confirmed that all Maldivian citizens in Bangladesh are currently safe. Notably, two Maldivian medical students in northern Bangladesh have decided to return home following the recent closure of their schools. Assistance from the Bangladesh and Indian High Commissions facilitated their safe passage across the Bangladesh-India border by land.

The Foreign Ministry has advised Maldivian citizens in Bangladesh to adhere to the curfew regulations imposed by the Bangladeshi government, which have been extended indefinitely. The ministry also urged citizens to follow instructions from the Maldives High Commission and to contact the commission for assistance if needed.