Key Concern Remain Over Dhaka EC Credibility: EU to Send 150 Observers for Bangladesh Election

IPW US Desk: October 14,  2025

The European Union (EU) is expected to send 150 election observers for the upcoming national election in Bangladesh, scheduled for February 26, according to sources within the Dhaka Election Commission (EC). While the EU traditionally engages in such missions, this move carries renewed significance amid past tensions and ongoing concerns about the credibility of Bangladesh’s electoral process.

Notably, the EU refrained from dispatching its expert monitoring team in recent elections, citing concerns over the transparency and legitimacy of polls held under the previous Awami League-led government. At least three elections during that period were widely criticized for falling short of international democratic standards.

This time, the upcoming election is being viewed as a critical test for both sides when the question is a free and fair election. There is an increased pressure to establish a credible electoral environment that upholds democratic norms and ensures broad political participation. For this to happen, the Election Commission must demonstrate a level of preparedness and neutrality that meets the EU’s criteria for deploying a full-scale observation mission.

However, a fundamental question persists: what distinguishes the current EC’s offer from that of the previous administration? One of the EU’s core conditions- ensuring the participation of all major political parties remains unresolved. The Awami League has yet to participate  to any transparent or inclusive format of engagement that would satisfy this requirement.

The EU’s concerns extend beyond party participation. Its focus includes electoral reforms encompassing the independence and functioning of the Election Commission, freedom of the media, and the role of civil society. Central to the EU's assessment is whether the EC operates with sufficient institutional independence and transparency in managing the electoral process.

The extent of progress made in these areas is unclear. Observers continue to question how the EC intends to ensure full participation, address election-related complaints, and maintain legal legitimacy in the registration of political parties. What mechanisms are in place to handle electoral disputes? How clearly has the Commission laid out its roadmap for a fair and credible election?

Furthermore, the EC’s reliance on other institutions raises concerns about the coherence and enforceability of its election conduct abilities. Are those dependencies being addressed adequately? And internally, has the EC undergone the necessary reforms to coordinate and execute a credible election?

As February approaches, the EU’s decision to send a full observation mission will likely hinge on the answers to these questions. Without demonstrable progress on inclusivity and institutional integrity, doubts will continue to cloud the credibility of the upcoming election.