Dhaka: European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) Chief Observer Ivars Ijabs has expressed optimism about the upcoming national elections and referendum in Bangladesh, noting that the past three parliamentary elections were deemed not credible. He made these remarks during a meeting with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the state guesthouse Jamuna.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the meeting did not include discussions about the Awami League or its election participation, as confirmed by Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam during a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy. Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad were also present at the briefing.
Following an invitation from Bangladeshi authorities, the European Union has dispatched an Election Observation Mission for the parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12. Ijabs, a Member of the European Parliament from Latvia, leads the EU EOM, which began its activities in late December 2025. The mission is expanding with the arrival of 56 long-term observers who will be deployed across Bangladesh’s 64 administrative districts.
This marks the EU’s first comprehensive election observation mission to Bangladesh since 2008. Chief Observer Ijabs emphasized the significance of the forthcoming election for the country, stating that the EU’s decision to send a large observation team underscores the historic nature of this event.
During his meeting with Prof Yunus, discussions focused on election preparations, ensuring a level playing field for political parties, and the referendum, particularly regarding the ‘Yes’ vote. Alam highlighted that the EU’s decision to send an observation mission reflects Bangladesh’s large population, its strong trade ties with the EU, and its status as a close friend.
Alam further noted that during Sheikh Hasina’s nearly sixteen-year tenure, the EU had not sent any election observation mission. Ijabs assured the Chief Adviser that the EU mission would monitor all areas and engage with major political parties and other stakeholders.
Chief Adviser Prof Yunus assured the EU that the elections and referendum would be conducted smoothly, emphasizing their free, fair, credible, peaceful, and festive nature. He stated that the Election Commission and the interim government are prepared to ensure a smooth process and a level playing field for all political parties.
Prof Yunus expressed gratitude to the EU for sending the observation mission, calling it “extremely important” for ensuring a credible election and aiding Bangladesh’s democratic transition. The interim government is actively conducting campaigns and awareness-building activities regarding the ‘Yes’ vote for the referendum.
The meeting also saw the presence of SDGs Affairs Principal Coordinator Lamiya Morshed and EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller, among others.