In a strong endorsement of Bangladesh’s electoral integrity, the EU Election Observation Mission has labeled the recent 13th parliamentary elections as trustworthy and efficiently conducted. Speaking at a Dhaka press conference, MEP and mission head Ivars Ijabs positioned the vote as an essential milestone in reinvigorating democracy and upholding legal supremacy in the South Asian nation.
MEP Tomas Zdechovsky’s team backed the results, praising the 2026 elections for their high level of competition where core liberties were upheld to a significant degree. The electoral laws meet global benchmarks, and the Election Commission demonstrated autonomy and openness throughout.
The chief observer commended the role of civil society—citizen watchdogs, misinformation busters, young leaders, and female advocates—in fostering greater openness and aiding voters’ discerning participation. Such involvement marked a positive evolution in Bangladesh’s polling landscape.
Despite these advances, the report flagged key issues: marginal inclusion of disabled voters, restricted avenues for women in politics, intermittent violence at the local level, and ongoing threats from disinformation-driven crowds. Indigenous groups and minorities suffer from a lack of targeted measures, limiting their political voice.
Ijabs pressed for abandoning legacy approaches in favor of empowering autonomous bodies, safeguarding rights, and enforcing responsibility. Looking ahead, Zdechovsky stressed the need for the incoming legislature and executive, with institutional support, to enact vital reforms as Bangladesh steps into a transformative era.
Comprised of observers from EU countries plus Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, the 223-member EU EOM team covered every district during voting. Their ongoing vigilance post-polls will culminate in a detailed final assessment, signaling sustained international scrutiny and encouragement for democratic progress.