The European Union (EU) plans to deploy a large election observation mission to Bangladesh for the upcoming general election, scheduled for the first half of February — marking the first such mission since 2008.
EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller announced the plan during a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka on Tuesday, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing.
Ambassador Miller said the mission is yet to receive final confirmation but is expected to include between 150 and 200 members. Some observers will arrive about six weeks before polling day, with others joining a week ahead of the election.
“This would be the first time since 2008 that the EU is sending such a full-fledged election observer team to Bangladesh,” Miller said, adding that the bloc will also assist in deploying local election observers.
During the hour-long meeting, the two sides discussed governance and constitutional reforms, election preparations, judicial and labour reforms, trade and investment ties between Bangladesh and the EU, and the broader political process.
The EU envoy praised the July National Charter, describing it as a “very important” step toward ensuring a smooth democratic transition. He also commended the government’s recent labour law amendments and judicial reforms as “notable successes.”
“These are all important steps,” Miller said, reaffirming the EU’s continued support for the Election Commission’s efforts to ensure free, fair, and credible polls in February. He described the election as “an opportunity to reset the reputation of the country.”
The ambassador also reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s smooth graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status and enhancing trade relations through an economic partnership agreement.
Discussions also covered collaboration in aviation, shipping, and combating human trafficking and illegal migration.
During the meeting, Chief Adviser Yunus said Bangladesh is set to sign an agreement with global shipping giant A.P. Moller–Maersk for the development and management of the Laldia Terminal at Chattogram Port.
Ambassador Miller noted that the Danish company plans to invest around $800 million to develop the terminal into one of the most advanced in the region.
The meeting also addressed issues related to the election environment, candidate eligibility, and the protection of human rights in the lead-up to the polls.
