The European Union (EU) has announced a €4 million assistance package to help Bangladesh hold its upcoming 13th parliamentary elections in line with international standards.
EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller made the announcement on Tuesday (August 19) following a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A.M.M. Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka. Representatives from the European Partnership for Democracy also joined the EU delegation.
Miller said the EU is working as a partner in Bangladesh’s progress toward democratic elections, with preparations underway for polls expected in early 2026.
“Today I came to inform the Election Commission that the EU will provide more than €4 million so that Bangladesh can organize elections in line with international standards. This was a very productive meeting, and we will continue discussions with the interim government and the Election Commission in the coming days,” he stated.
The EU’s support will directly contribute to enhancing the capacity of the Election Commission through expert advice, planning, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Miller emphasized that election experts will be stationed in Bangladesh to strengthen citizen monitoring and voter education efforts. “As the EU, we are committed to empowering our partner Bangladesh and the Election Commission to ensure a free and fair election,” he added.
Highlighting the EU’s broader priorities, Miller noted that independence, competence, and accountability remain central to its engagement with Bangladesh. He confirmed that the EU considers Bangladesh a priority country and will continue discussions with relevant authorities.
Responding to questions, Miller said election preparations and political parties are under close attention. However, he clarified that announcing the election date is solely the responsibility of the Election Commission. “We are now discussing practical steps that will help ensure the credibility of the election. Our goal is that your election is genuinely acceptable, of international standard, and of course free and fair,” he said.
Miller also revealed that a pre-election assessment mission will arrive in Bangladesh next month. This will not be a full observation mission, but rather a team of technical experts tasked with assessing whether conditions are in place to deploy an election observation mission. “We are reviewing feasibility and capacity on the ground,” he explained.
Additionally, the EU is preparing initiatives to strengthen voter education, support local election monitoring organizations, work with civil society groups, and counter misinformation through expert engagement.
