Sheikh Hasina's Resignation And Bangladesh's Crisis: Here's How World Reacted To It

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following weeks of intense protests, which resulted in hundreds of deaths. The resignation, announced on Monday, came after widespread student-led demonstrations against a government job quota system evolved into a broader demand for Hasina's removal. This marked the most severe political crisis during her 15-year rule.

As tens of thousands surrounded government offices and residences in Dhaka, Hasina was evacuated via an army helicopter with her sister. Reports from Indian media indicate that she has landed in New Delhi, as reported by Hindustan Times.

In a national address, Bangladesh's army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced that an interim government would now govern the 170-million-strong country, though details were not provided.

Here are the global reactions to Hasina's ouster and the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh:

Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party

It was stated by Rahman, currently living in exile in the United Kingdom, on X that "Hasina's resignation proves the power of the people." He urged a collective effort to rebuild Bangladesh into a democratic and developed nation where the rights and freedoms of all people are protected, as reported by Aljazeera.

British Prime Minister's Office

A spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed concern over the violence and the significant loss of life, including students, children, and law enforcement officers. It was deemed "completely unacceptable" and a call was made for the protection of the right to peaceful protest, urging the authorities to release all peaceful protesters and ensure due process.

Bangladeshi Diaspora in the UK

In Whitechapel, a London neighbourhood with a large Bangladeshi community, celebrations erupted. The national flag was waved, car horns were honked, and chants of "Bangladesh! Bangladesh!" filled the air. Abu Sayem, 50, declared that Bangladesh had achieved its "second independence," while cab driver Ishtiaque Choudhury expressed relief and happiness for his nation.

Germany

A German foreign ministry spokesperson emphasized the importance of Bangladesh continuing on its democratic path amid the unrest.

European Union

The European Union called for an "orderly and peaceful" transition to democratic rule in Bangladesh. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stressed the need for calm and restraint and the importance of a transition towards a democratically elected government with respect for human rights and democratic principles.

United States

The U.S. commended the Bangladeshi army for its "restraint" and welcomed the announcement of an interim government. The White House urged that the interim government formation be democratic and inclusive, and praised the Army's restraint. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer applauded the protesters and emphasized the need for justice and a balanced interim government that respects all rights and sets up democratic elections swiftly.

United Nations

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for calm following Sheikh Hasina's resignation and highlighted the need for a "peaceful, orderly, and democratic transition." Spokesman Farhan Haq stated that Guterres stood in solidarity with the people of Bangladesh and called for an independent, impartial, and transparent investigation into all acts of violence.

UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Opinion, Irene Khan, mentioned that the army now faces a "very tough job" and hoped for a peaceful transition with accountability for human rights violations. She pointed out that the country now faces the task of rebuilding after a period of despair under the previous government.

Amnesty International

Amnesty's South Asia researcher Taqbir Huda noted that much of the violence might have been avoided if the Hasina government had been more responsive to the student's demands. With the military now in control, Huda stressed the importance of a time-bound measure to restore governance, as reported by Aljazeera.

India

While no official comment has been made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government regarding Hasina's resignation, a "high alert" has been issued along the 4,096 km (2,545-mile) border with Bangladesh. Modi's government was known to have close ties with the Hasina-led Awami League government.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Ali Sabry expressed hope for a swift return to peace and stability in Bangladesh, believing in the resilience and unity of the Bangladeshi nation, as per a media report.

Russia

Russia's foreign ministry stated that Moscow hopes for a "speedy return of internal political processes to constitutional norms" in Bangladesh, which is considered a friendly country.

The international community has responded with a mix of concerns and hopes for a stable and democratic future for Bangladesh as the country navigates through its current crisis.