Warning or signal? Waves of concern and diplomatic discussions surrounding the message of US Embassy in Dhaka

 US Embassy Warning: Security Tip or Diplomatic Signal?

Moin Qaderi London: 

The United States Embassy in Dhaka issued a security warning on 29 May 2025, advising US citizens to avoid public gatherings and ensure personal security. The notice noted that the number of protests and mass gatherings across Bangladesh has risen recently and those rally could turn into violence.

Although this warning is commonly seen as a consular responsibility, many people see it as a reflection of international concern over the ongoing political and social situation in Bangladesh. According to experts, this kind of message is not just for the safety of citizens; rather it is a subtle diplomatic message that indicates monitoring the government and concerned parties.

Political instability and international response

Behind the ongoing movements in Bangladesh lies labor rights issues, demand for reform of millionaire and political opposition. There has already been death incidents in clashes between students and police in different places of Dhaka. Limited curfew and mobile internet service disruption has also been reported in some areas.

World Bank's recent Global Risk Outlook said political uncertainty could reduce Bangladesh's direct foreign investment flow by seventeen percent. An official of Bangladesh Tourism Corporation informed that the tourism sector is also being affected by this.

Effects of warning on international context

This kind of warning is nothing new in the international context. The U.S. Embassy issued such warning during the pro-democratic movement in Hong Kong in 2019, which resulted in a significant decline in the tourism sector. Such steps were also taken during the anti-monarchy protests in Thailand in 2020 and Pakistan's election violence in 2020.

Government's response and future should be done

Until the time of writing this report, there was no formal response surrounding this message from the Bangladesh government. However, a source of Foreign Ministry said, they are considering it as a foreign threat and closely monitoring the situation.

According to analysts, the situation is heated but still not out of control and the government should find a way to eradicate the tension by sitting in peaceful dialogues and discussions with the opposition and all concerned palaces. Because without internal stability can harm both international relations and economy.