Dhaka: The European Union (EU) envoy has stated that the timing of Bangladesh’s forthcoming general election is entirely a domestic issue, emphasizing the necessity for sufficient time to implement crucial reforms amid the country’s ongoing political transition. “We see this political transition as leading up to the democratic election..from the EU we don’t have any opinion on time, we are not pressuring anyone to hold election on a particular date,” said Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Bangladesh Michael Miller.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ambassador made these remarks during a ‘DCAB Talk’ organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) at the Jatiya Press Club. Ambassador Miller affirmed the EU’s support for the interim government’s ambitious reform agenda, stressing that adequate time is essential for the effective implementation of these reforms. He remarked, “We are waiting for political parties and the interim government to agree on a clearly prioritised and specific list of reforms.”
The EU brings technical expertise, financing, and political will to support the reform process, standing ready to assist. Responding to a query, Miller stated the EU’s endorsement of the United Nations fact-finding mission’s work, highlighting the need for accountability for the ‘terrible crimes’ committed during the July Uprising. He emphasized the importance of a transparent and fair process, ensuring that the rights of every individual are respected through due process, expressing hope that Bangladesh’s judicial authorities will act based on evidence and uphold justice.
On the topic of women’s rights, the EU ambassador stressed that gender equality is a fundamental value for both the EU and the broader international community. He urged a thorough examination of the work by Bangladesh’s Women’s Affairs Reform Commission and encouraged all political stakeholders to engage with its recommendations. “The recommendations are crucial. We would like to see them translated into action, and we will contribute to the effort to promote greater equality,” he stated.
Addressing the Rohingya crisis, Miller lauded Bangladesh for its sustained humanitarian efforts in hosting the displaced population, while reaffirming the EU’s support for a political resolution. He acknowledged the ongoing violence across the border and emphasized the EU’s commitment to facilitating a political solution as the only viable path forward. The ambassador reiterated the shared understanding with Bangladesh that any repatriation of Rohingya refugees must be safe, voluntary, and dignified.
As a committed humanitarian partner, the EU remains pragmatic in addressing the needs of both the refugees and the host communities. In 2025 alone, the European Union has allocated over EUR 32 million under the Joint Response Plan to support Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh. Since 2017, the EU and its member states have provided nearly EUR 1 billion in humanitarian support for Rohingya refugees across the region, including those in Myanmar and neighboring countries. DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun also addressed the event.