With the 13th national parliamentary election approaching, several countries have expressed interest in sending election observers to Bangladesh, while also raising concerns over security, particularly in diplomatic areas.
Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam briefed diplomats at the State Guest House Padma on Thursday, assuring them of adequate security arrangements for foreign missions and election observers.
According to foreign ministry sources, diplomats, UN officials and representatives of international organisations based in Dhaka were informed about election preparations and security measures surrounding the polls.
The diplomats were also assured that the Election Commission (EC) would provide necessary security support for foreign observers.
Pressure for acceptable elections
For months, foreign missions have been urging Bangladesh to hold free, fair, impartial and acceptable elections. These messages have been conveyed through diplomatic engagements and meetings with political parties.
Several countries have also indicated their willingness to work with a government elected through polls held according to the announced schedule, a stance seen by analysts as increasing pressure on the authorities ahead of the February elections.
EU to deploy largest observer mission since 2008
The European Union (EU) is expected to deploy its largest election observation mission to Bangladesh since the 2008 polls, according to foreign ministry sources.
EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller recently said this would be the first full-fledged EU election observation mission in the country since 2008. The team is expected to comprise 150 to 200 observers, with some arriving six weeks before polling day and others about a week ahead of the vote.
In 2008, the EU had deployed around 600 observers.
“The EU supports timely, peaceful and participatory elections in Bangladesh,” Miller said, adding that the bloc views the upcoming election as an opportunity to reaffirm Bangladesh’s democratic trajectory. The EU will also support the deployment of local election observers.
Besides the EU, organisations such as the US-based International Republican Institute (IRI), National Democratic Institute (NDI), and the Commonwealth have shown interest in sending observers.
Security concerns raised
Despite interest in observation, several countries have raised concerns about the law and order situation ahead of the elections. These concerns have intensified following recent incidents involving the Indian High Commission and the subsequent closure of visa centres.
The United States issued a security advisory on December 15, warning its citizens that political rallies and protests could intensify as the February 12, 2026, election date approaches. The advisory cautioned that peaceful protests could turn violent and urged US citizens to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings.
The US Embassy in Dhaka advised its citizens to remain vigilant, monitor local media, and contact the embassy if assistance is needed.
Regarding security at the Indian High Commission, the foreign affairs adviser said security had been strengthened following announcements of protest programmes, adding that the authorities believe they have succeeded in ensuring safety.
Dhaka reassures diplomats
According to foreign ministry sources, Thursday’s briefing lasted about 30 minutes, during which some ambassadors raised questions about security.
A senior foreign ministry official said several countries were interested in sending observers but sought assurances due to security concerns. They were told that diplomatic missions and observers would be fully protected.
Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam reiterated that law enforcement agencies, including the armed forces, remain active and coordinated to maintain law and order. He said security forces had been placed on highest alert in diplomatic zones.
The foreign secretary also told diplomats that despite recent incidents, there had been no major deterioration in the overall law and order situation.
Western emphasis on credible polls
Western countries and the United Nations have repeatedly stressed the need for a credible, participatory and peaceful election.
The British high commissioner has held multiple meetings with political parties and the EC, while the EU and Germany have also conveyed similar messages. German Ambassador Rüdiger Lotz recently discussed election preparations with the EC, saying Bangladesh needs an election in which multiple parties can participate.
A former diplomat in Dhaka said the upcoming polls carry heightened importance for the West, given controversies surrounding previous elections.
“Many countries want to engage with a government formed through a credible election. Security — especially for foreign missions, observers and the media — is crucial. Any failure there would send a very negative message,” he said.
The United Nations has also urged restraint. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on all parties to refrain from violence and help maintain a peaceful election environment.
