The European Union (EU) has signaled its intent to deploy a full-fledged election observation mission for Bangladesh’s 13th general election, scheduled for February next year.
The last time the EU sent such a mission was during the 2008 polls. It refrained from sending observers for the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections.
An EU pre-election assessment team visited Dhaka last month and held extensive meetings with political parties, civil society representatives, and government officials to gauge the political atmosphere and public expectations.
During these consultations, the team expressed its readiness to send observers – provided a formal invitation is issued soon.
Md Nazrul Islam, secretary (bilateral) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told TIMES of Bangladesh, “We had a couple of meetings with them. This week, I also met them again, and our discussions were very positive.”
A senior foreign ministry official, requesting anonymity, said the EU has already requested an early invitation so it can make the necessary preparations. “They need time to approve the budget, finalize the mission members, and complete logistical arrangements.
“That is why an early invitation is important,” he noted.
Traditionally, Bangladesh’s Election Commission issues an open invitation to international observers ahead of national polls. However, the EU requires additional lead time due to its elaborate planning process.
Earlier, in July 2023, a six-member EU pre-election monitoring mission, led by Riccardo Chelleri, visited Bangladesh to assess the feasibility of a full-scale mission.
The team evaluated logistics, security, and financial aspects while meeting with hundreds of stakeholders, including the BNP, other political parties, government officials, civil society, professional groups, and minority representatives.
