The 13th parliamentary elections in Bangladesh were deemed credible and skillfully conducted by the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) today, which also described the elections as a crucial step in reestablishing democratic administration and the rule of law.
At a press event in the capital, EU EOM Chief Observer Ivars Ijabs, a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), gave the mission’s initial statement regarding the parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12.
The mission’s declaration received full support from the Delegation of Members of the European Parliament, which was headed by Tomáš Zdechovský (MEP).
“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.”
He also highlighted the vital role of citizen observers, fact-checkers, as well as youth and women activists in rebuilding public trust in elections, enhancing transparency and helping voters to make informed choices.
Election Day was peaceful, joyous, and well-organized, according to EU observers, with committed poll workers effectively overseeing the opening, voting, and counting procedures.
Integrity was improved by having party agents present at every stage of the procedure, and public trust was preserved by returning officers and legacy media providing frequent updates on local results tabulation. However, it wasn’t always guaranteed that people with disabilities would participate independently.
The Chief Observer emphasized that women’s limited political space hindered their equal participation, and that the democratic process was hampered by intermittent localized political violence and ongoing fear of mob attacks, which are frequently brought on by misinformation.
He noted that the absence of affirmative action measures continues to leave indigenous communities and minorities underrepresented in the political arena.
“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 Ivars Ijabs.
Tomáš Zdechovský, Head of the Delegation of the European Parliament, said: “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.”
Since the end of 2025, the EU EOM has been operating in Bangladesh. The expedition, which was spread across all 64 administrative districts on election day, had 223 international observers selected from all EU member states as well as Canada, Norway, and Switzerland.
In the upcoming months, the mission will provide its final report, which will include suggestions for bettering future elections, after continuing to monitor the post-election situation.
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