EU election mission deploys 56 long-term observers to all 64 districts
She said the mission’s work is guided by three principles: impartiality, independence, and non-interference.
The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) today (17 January) deployed 56 long-term observers (LTOs) across all 64 districts of Bangladesh to monitor the upcoming national election.
Speaking at a press briefing at a city hotel, EU EOM Deputy Chief Observer Inta Lase outlined the mission's methodology, saying the observers will follow a nationwide approach in line with the EU's standard practice of observing electoral processes ahead of polling day.
"Our observers are going to the far corners of the country. Today, we are deploying 56 people who will visit election administrations, attend rallies, and meet with candidates, civil society, and citizen observer groups," Lase said.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
She said the mission's work is guided by three principles: impartiality, independence, and non-interference.
Lase clarified that although the mission is in Bangladesh at the invitation of the Election Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, its role is limited to observation.
"We are invited to observe, not to interfere. If we observe an incident, we will not report it immediately to the Election Commission, as that would overstep our mandate. Instead, our team will analyze these findings to assess how they affect the overall electoral process," she added.
The number of observers is expected to increase closer to the election. Lase said around 90 short-term observers will arrive from Europe, along with a delegation from the European Parliament.
She again added that diplomats from EU member states and partner countries, including Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, will also support the mission.
"On election day, there will be around 200 of us out in the country—in cities, towns, and villages—from the early morning until the last ballot is counted," Lase said.
The EU EOM will not release findings during the campaign period. A preliminary statement with initial observations will be presented at a press conference two days after the election.
A final report, including technical recommendations for future electoral processes, is expected to be published about two months after the election concludes.
Lase described the current period as an important time for Bangladesh and said the mission aims to accompany the country through the electoral process. She also expressed hope for a safe pre-election environment for both observers and voters.
