Around 200 EU delegates will observe polls on election day, says EU EOM official

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) yesterday (17 January 2026) deployed 56 long-term observers (LTOs) across all 64 districts of Bangladesh to monitor the upcoming general elections.

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 the 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," Inta Lase said.

She said the mission's work is guided by three principles: impartiality, independence, and non-interference.

Inta 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. Inta 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 elections.

A final report, including technical recommendations for future electoral processes, is expected to be published about two months after the elections conclude.

Inta Lase described the current period as an important time for Bangladesh and said their electoral 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.