EU ambassador backs timely, inclusive elections in Bangladesh

European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh, Michael Miller, reaffirmed the EU's strong support for timely, smooth, peaceful, and fully participatory national elections, describing the upcoming vote as a vital opportunity to restore Bangladesh’s democratic trajectory.

Speaking to reporters after meeting Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission building in Agargaon, Dhaka on Tuesday, Ambassador Miller announced that the EU is preparing to deploy a large election observation mission — a clear sign of its confidence in Bangladesh’s electoral process.

The Ambassador had earlier attended a mock voting exercise organised by the Election Commission on Saturday. 

He expressed admiration for the thorough preparations, particularly the decision to hold the parliamentary elections and the referendum on the July Charter simultaneously despite the logistical challenges. 

“We have full confidence in the professionalism and capability of the Election Commission,” he said, adding that he is very optimistic about the prospects for free and fair elections.

Miller highlighted ongoing EU assistance to the electoral process and pledged continued support.

Addressing journalists’ questions, he acknowledged the unique challenges of this election: a significant number of first-time voters — potentially an entire generation that has never participated due to past concerns over fairness or fear of violence — will cast ballots. 

He praised the Commission’s decision to extend voting hours as a “wise and practical measure.”

The Ambassador urged all stakeholders to seize this rare opportunity — the first in many years — to ensure a genuinely free and fair election.

Earlier, a four-member EU delegation led by Ambassador Miller held talks with the Chief Election Commissioner.

The EU has engaged regularly with the Election Commission in the lead-up to the vote. 

Unlike previous cycles, including the 13th parliamentary election when a full observation mission was planned but ultimately not deployed, the EU is now moving forward with sending a substantial team of around 150 observers who will arrive in phases once the election schedule is officially announced.