The European Union has pledged €4 million to help ensure credible and transparent elections

The European Union (EU) will provide €4 million to support Bangladesh in holding the 13th National Parliamentary Election in line with international standards.

EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller announced the commitment on Tuesday after a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission Secretariat in Agargaon. A six-member EU delegation, including representatives from the European Partnership for Democracy, attended the hour-long discussion. This marked Miller’s fourth meeting with the current Election Commission.

Speaking to reporters, Miller said the EU was committed to working as a partner in Bangladesh’s journey toward a democratic election.

“Today I informed the Election Commission that the EU will provide over €4 million in assistance to help ensure that the upcoming polls meet international standards. It was a very productive meeting, and we will continue discussions with the interim government and the Election Commission in the coming days,” he said.

He explained that the EU’s support would include strengthening citizen observation, promoting voter education, and building the Election Commission’s capacity through technical expertise in planning, dispute resolution, and accountability.

“Our priority is to support Bangladesh in ensuring independence, efficiency, and credibility in the electoral process. Bangladesh is a priority country for the EU, particularly regarding the possibility of deploying an election observation mission,” Miller noted.

He added that a team of EU technical experts would visit Bangladesh next month to assess whether conditions are in place for a full-fledged election observation mission. “This will not be a full mission but rather an assessment of capacity and feasibility,” he clarified.

The ambassador also highlighted ongoing initiatives such as voter education, enhancing the capacity of domestic observer groups, working with civic organisations, and tackling disinformation.

“The focus now is on election preparations and political parties. Setting the election date is, of course, the responsibility of the Election Commission,” Miller said. “What we want is for Bangladesh’s election to be credible, internationally recognised, and truly free and fair.”