Unicef notes that prolonged school closures increase the likelihood that girls will drop out permanently or be married off as families search for ways to cope.

Comprehensive strategy needed to prevent further damage

The funding cuts by USAID and other donors signal a worrying trend that could impact gender equality efforts worldwide.

According to a Child Rights Advocacy Coalition of Bangladesh report, at least 121 children were killed by law enforcement and other agencies during the uprising.

Existing legal, institutional frameworks failing to provide security

The focus of local governments should be ensuring that child protection protection services are prioritised.