Japan, UNDP partner to support Bangladesh’s electoral process

The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed an agreement to bolster Bangladesh's efforts in ensuring free, fair, and inclusive national elections.

The agreement signing ceremony was held at the Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) Secretariat. H.E. Mr SAIDA Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, and Mr Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, signed the agreement in the presence of Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin and Mr ISHIIZUKI Hideo, Director-General of the International Cooperation Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Under the new partnership, Japan will provide a grant of JPY 695 million (approximately USD 4.8 million) to strengthen the institutional, technical, and operational capacities of the BEC. The initiative will support the Commission's efforts in enhancing voter and civic education, increasing participation of women, youth, and marginalised communities, and upholding transparency and integrity throughout the electoral process.

Welcoming the support, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin said, "This partnership will help us further strengthen our systems and deliver elections that uphold public trust and democratic values."

Ambassador SAIDA Shinichi noted, "Bangladesh stands at a pivotal moment in its democratic journey. With respect for Bangladesh's ownership, Japan fully supports the country's effort to carry out a peaceful and democratic political transition. We hope that Japan's assistance through UNDP will contribute significantly to these efforts."

Stefan Liller of UNDP expressed gratitude for Japan's continued partnership, adding, "Japan's support reinforces our shared goal of helping Bangladesh hold peaceful and credible elections that truly reflect the will of its people."

Japan's assistance forms part of its broader commitment to peace, human security, and democratic development in Bangladesh and across the Indo-Pacific region.