EU confirms election observation mission for Bangladesh national polls

The European Union (EU) has deployed an Election Observation Mission (EOM) to monitor Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election, according to a statement published on Tuesday (December 16) on the website of the European External Action Service (EEAS), the EU’s diplomatic arm.

The EEAS said the mission has been deployed in response to a formal invitation from the Bangladeshi authorities. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas appointed the mission to observe Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12, 2026.

Member of the European Parliament Ivars Ijabs has been appointed as the Chief Observer of the EU Election Observation Mission.

In a statement, Ijabs said he was honoured to lead the EU’s election observation mission in Bangladesh. “This mission will provide an independent and impartial assessment of the electoral process,” he said, adding that the deployment reflects the EU’s tangible support for the aspirations of the Bangladeshi people for strong democratic institutions, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

The EU Election Observation Mission will assess the electoral process in line with international standards and Bangladesh’s national legal framework, and is expected to issue its findings following the conclusion of the polls.