Overall election environment positive: EU Chief Observer

The overall environment of the 13th national parliamentary election is very positive, said European Union election observation mission chief Ivars Ijabs.

He made the remarks during a press briefing on Tuesday morning, February 10, adding that EU short-term observers would begin field deployment from today.

Ivars Ijabs said the overall election atmosphere is positive and this election could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh’s democratic history.

The European Union Election Observation Mission expects to witness a credible and inclusive election and is conducting its activities in Bangladesh based on shared principles such as democracy, political accountability and the rule of law.

He said that although discussions are needed in some areas, the environment is encouraging overall.

The EU chief observer stressed that ensuring participation of all communities, minorities and especially women is essential to make the election genuinely inclusive. The EU is therefore placing special emphasis on an inclusive electoral process with strong participation of minorities and women.

He said the EU Election Observation Mission will publish its preliminary report on February 14, which will provide detailed findings.