As Bangladesh prepares for the 13th National Parliamentary Election tomorrow, February 12, the world’s attention is firmly fixed on the country. Alongside the general election, a historic national referendum on the "July National Charter"—the first of its kind following the 2024 mass uprising—is also set to take place.
According to a message from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing on Wednesday (February 11), a total of 394 international observers and 197 foreign journalists have arrived to monitor the proceedings.
Breakdown of International Observers
The international contingent includes a diverse group of representatives:
- 80 representatives from various international organizations.
- 239 delegates from bilateral partner countries (including independent European observers).
- 51 individuals associated with various global institutions.
This year’s numbers mark a significant increase in international interest. For context, the 2024 election saw 158 observers, while previous elections in 2018 and 2014 had 125 and 4 observers, respectively.
Major Organizations and Participating Countries
Several prominent global bodies have sent dedicated teams:
ANFREL: 28 observers.
Commonwealth Secretariat: 27 observers.
International Republican Institute (IRI): 19 observers.
Others: NDI, OIC, ICAPP, and the European External Action Service.
Observers have also arrived from over 21 countries, including:
Regional Partners: Pakistan (8), Sri Lanka (11), Malaysia (6), and Bhutan (2).
Global Partners: Turkey (13), Russia (2), China (3), Japan (4), and South Africa (2).
Reflection of Global Confidence
Lamiya Morshed, Senior Secretary and SDG Coordinator, stated that the overwhelming response from the international community reflects their confidence in the interim government’s ability to hold a free, fair, and participatory election.
Notable figures participating in the observation include:
- Nana Akufo-Addo, former President of Ghana.
- Deki Pema, Chief Election Commissioner of Bhutan.
- Lord Richard Newby, former Deputy Chief Whip of the UK House of Lords.
Election Snapshot
More than 2,000 candidates from over 50 political parties and independent backgrounds are contesting for parliamentary seats.
Simultaneously, the July National Charter—a package of constitutional reforms including term limits for the Prime Minister and the restoration of the caretaker government system—will be put to a "Yes/No" public vote.
