Dhaka: European Union (EU) Ambassador in Dhaka Michael Miller announced that the EU will provide an assistance package of over four million euro to Bangladesh to help conduct elections in accordance with international standards. This announcement was made following a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin at Agargaon’s Nirbachan Bhaban.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a six-member EU delegation had earlier met with the CEC. Ambassador Miller emphasized the EU’s commitment to partnering with Bangladesh to support the country’s transition ahead of its national elections in early 2026. He stated that discussions will continue with the interim government and the Election Commission (EC) to ensure the elections meet international standards.
The EU envoy highlighted the presence of representatives from the European Partnership for Democracy, who are election experts. These representatives will focus on citizen observation in the upcoming elections. Miller underlined the EU’s commitment to empowering Bangladesh and the Election Commission by providing capacity building and expert advice in areas such as operational planning and dispute resolution.
Miller reiterated the EU’s focus on ensuring the independence, efficiency, and accountability of Bangladesh’s institutions. He also mentioned the possibility of an EU election observation mission, which remains a priority for the EU.
In response to inquiries, Miller stressed that the attention is on election preparations and political parties, while the announcement of the election date remains the task of the EC. He highlighted the importance of practical steps to ensure the elections are accepted as free and fair.
Miller announced that a pre-election observation team and a group of technical experts will arrive in Dhaka next month. Their role will be to verify the environment’s suitability for an election observation mission, assessing both capacity and current realities.
Addressing further questions, the EU envoy detailed initiatives being taken, including voter education, support for local observer organizations, collaboration with the Election Commission, and efforts to prevent disinformation through partnership with civic organizations and experts.