The European Union Election Observation Mission today described Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary elections as credible and competently managed, calling the polls a pivotal step towards restoring democratic governance and the rule of law.
Ivars Ijabs, Member of the European Parliament (MEP) and Chief Observer of the EU EOM, presented the mission’s preliminary statement on the 12 February parliamentary elections at a press briefing in the capital.
The Delegation of Members of the European Parliament, led by Tomáš Zdechovský, fully endorsed the mission’s statement.
“The 2026 parliamentary elections were credible and competently managed, marking a pivotal step towards restoring democratic governance and rule of law. This historic contest was genuinely competitive, with fundamental freedoms broadly respected,” said Chief Observer Ijabs.
He added, “The electoral legal framework largely accords with international standards, while the Bangladesh Election Commission worked independently and transparently, maintaining the confidence of stakeholders and lending integrity to the polls.”
Ijabs also highlighted the crucial role of citizen observers and fact-checkers, as well as youth and women activists, in rebuilding public trust in elections, enhancing transparency, and helping voters make informed choices.
According to the EU observers, Election Day was orderly, festive, and calm, with dedicated poll workers efficiently managing the opening, voting, and counting processes. The presence of party agents at all stages enhanced integrity, while regular updates on results tabulation by returning officers and media outlets helped maintain public confidence. However, independent participation by persons with disabilities was not always ensured.
The Chief Observer noted that limited political space for women undermined their equal participation, while sporadic localised political violence and persistent fear of mob attacks, often triggered by disinformation, harmed the democratic process. He also highlighted that the absence of affirmative action continues to leave indigenous communities and minorities under-represented in politics.
“It is time to abandon the old practices that no longer reflect the growing maturity of Bangladesh’s democracy and to chart a new course promoting independent institutions, human rights, and accountability,” said Ijabs.
Tomáš Zdechovský added, “The country is now entering a new crucial phase. We urge the new parliament and government, backed by all other state institutions, to implement the approved reforms.”
The EU EOM has been present in Bangladesh since the end of 2025. On Election Day, the mission comprised 223 international observers from all EU member states, as well as Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, deployed across all 64 administrative districts.
The mission will continue to observe the post-election environment and will publish a final report, including recommendations for improving future elections, in the coming months.
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