EU to deploy a large election observation mission to Bangladesh, mission chief informs Chief Adviser

Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) Ivars Ijabs today said the EU will deploy a large election observation team to Bangladesh, noting that the upcoming election will be historic for the country.

Ijabs made the remarks during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna this morning.

At a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy this afternoon, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said the meeting, held at 11:30am, focused on preparations for the forthcoming national election and referendum.

Describing the discussion as highly significant, Alam said the talks covered election preparedness, ensuring a level playing field for political parties, and the referendum—particularly the importance of a “Yes” vote.

He noted that although the EU does not deploy election observation missions to many countries, it has decided to do so in Bangladesh because of the country’s large population, its strong trade relationship with the EU, and its status as a close partner. He also pointed out that the EU did not send any election observation mission during nearly 16 years of Sheikh Hasina’s tenure.

During the meeting, the EU EOM chief said he had observed widespread positive sentiment and strong enthusiasm across the country regarding the upcoming election and referendum, noting that the previous three parliamentary elections were not considered credible.

Ijabs sought detailed information on election preparations and the level playing field, Alam said, adding that there was no discussion about the Awami League or its participation in the polls. He also said the EU EOM stressed the importance of a “Yes” vote in the referendum, as it would enable the implementation of essential reform agendas.

Ijabs further informed the Chief Adviser that the EU observation mission will be deployed across the country, monitor all regions, and hold discussions with major political parties and other stakeholders.

In response, Professor Yunus assured the EU that the election and referendum would be conducted smoothly and would be free, fair, credible, peaceful, and festive.

He said the Election Commission and the interim government are fully prepared to ensure the smooth conduct of both exercises, adding that a level playing field will be guaranteed for all political parties and that he does not anticipate major problems.

Prof Yunus thanked the EU for sending the observation mission, calling it “extremely important” for ensuring a credible election and supporting Bangladesh’s democratic transition.

He said body-worn cameras will be used by security personnel at vulnerable polling centres to monitor any deterioration in law and order. The system will be centrally connected through an app, allowing monitoring from upazila, district, divisional, and Dhaka levels.

In addition, all polling centres will be equipped with CCTV cameras to help quickly identify troublemakers, while the military will remain deployed as a rapid-response force if needed.

On the referendum, Prof Yunus said the interim government is carrying out—and will continue—campaigns and awareness programmes in favour of a “Yes” vote. He explained that legal opinions had been sought and that top legal experts have confirmed in writing that the interim government is legally permitted to seek a “Yes” vote.

Although the formal election campaign will begin on January 22, he said an election wave is already visible across the country.

Describing the presence of EU observers as a major endorsement of Bangladesh’s electoral process, Prof Yunus reiterated that their role is vital to ensuring a democratic transition.

He identified social media as a major challenge, citing the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, often driven by malicious intent, and warned that elements linked to the fallen autocratic regime may attempt to disrupt the polls.

However, he said security forces are fully prepared to meet any challenges.

The Chief Adviser also noted strong enthusiasm among women and young voters and expressed optimism that voter turnout in the upcoming election would be high.