Helping strengthen democratic processes through global cooperation
How the EU supports credible democratic elections
The European Union is a world leader in monitoring elections to ensure they are credible, transparent, inclusive and competitive, as part of its wider commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
Through Election Observation Missions (EOMs), the EU assesses whether elections meet international standards. EOMs provide independent assessments to support transparent and credible electoral processes.
Since 2000, the EU has deployed over 200 EOMs in 75 countries, helping strengthen democratic processes worldwide. To learn more, follow the link to a video about European Election Missions.
EU observes Bangladesh’s 2026 elections
The EU EOM was present in Bangladesh between 28 December 2025 - 4 March 2026. At full strength it was comprised of 223 international observers from all EU Member States, Canada, Norway and Switzerland, deployed to all 64 administrative districts of Bangladesh.
The EU Election Observation Mission to Bangladesh presented its Preliminary Findings on the 14 February 2026 Parliamentary elections. Included in this report, in line with Bangladesh’s international commitments to democratic elections, the EOM offered 19 recommendations aimed at reinforcing the integrity of future electoral processes.
Final Report Press Conference EU EOM Bangladesh 2026
"These credible and competently managed elections marked a pivotal step toward restoring democratic governance and the rule of law, reflecting a shared commitment to democratic processes among all stakeholders. Although elections bolstered public trust, legal and procedural gaps remain, signalling the need to continue the reform process in line with the July National Charter and beyond."
The EU EOM Chief Observer, Ivars Ijabs, Member of the European Parliament
The Mission praised several positive developments, attesting to the resilience of Bangladesh’s democracy. The renewed legal framework
- largely aligned with international standards for democratic elections
- was professionally implemented by the Bangladesh Election Commission
- demonstrated openness
- successfully enfranchised approximately 770 000 voters living abroad
The Electoral Enquiry and Adjudication Committees were pro-active in upholding the campaign rules. The Mission also observed a revitalised civic space and took note of important national initiatives to counter disinformation.
Press remarks of Ivars Ijabs, the EU EOM Chief Observer, Member of the European Parliament
“Now, it is time to turn the focus to the reform process to strengthen transparency and rule of law, to show political will in promoting women in public and political life and to foster an environment for a pluralistic and secure public debate, both online and offline. The European Union stands ready to support Bangladesh in those efforts, in line with the recently initialed Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, and reaffirming our unwavering commitment to democratic principles.”
The EU EOM Chief Observer, Ivars Ijabs, Member of the European Parliament
European Union, 2026
EU EOM Bangladesh 2026 reportThe EU EOM has put forward six priority recommendations, including
The Mission also recommends the EC take steps to ensure transparency throughout all stages of the vote tabulation and to consider extending eligibility for postal voting to other categories of voters.
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Europe as a reliable partner
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