International Voices Overlooked as Bangladesh Prepares to Vote

As Bangladesh organizes to cast their votes, the upcoming election has drawn substantial consideration both at home and abroad. While domestic political tightness and campaign developments dominate local debates, many international opinions and concerns seem to be receiving limited attention. Observers from global organizations, foreign governments, and human rights groups have raised questions about electoral transparency, democratic participation, and the overall political atmosphere. In this critical moment for the nation’s future, the gap between international expectations and domestic realities highlights the growing complication of Bangladesh’s electoral scenery.

In previous elections held under Bangladesh Awami League regime in 2014, 2018, and 2024, international voices and concerns about democratic standards were largely overlooked, despite the fact that no major political party was formally banned at the time. Those polls were already criticized for irregularities, opposition restrictions, and limited electoral competition. However, the current political situation marks a significant shift, as authorities have now banned the country’s last ruling government party—one of the oldest and most influential political forces in Bangladesh, widely regarded as a key pillar of the Liberation War and supported by a large base of citizens. This new development has intensified both domestic and international debate, raising fresh questions about political inclusion and the future of democracy as Bangladesh prepares for another crucial vote.

The political landscape ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming election has become increasingly fragmented and tense. The last remaining opposition force, the Jatiya Party, is now divided, with one faction choosing to boycott the polls while another has decided to participate, though it continues to raise concerns about the lack of neutrality and the rise of “mob culture” under government influence. Adding to the uncertainty, Bangladesh Awami League’s alliance partners and 13 other parties have also stepped away from the election process. Many of these groups have long been regarded as progressive political forces in Bangladesh, representing significant segments of the population. Their absence has expanded questions about inclusiveness, competition, and democratic credibility as the country approaches another critical vote.

Many countries and global institutions have expressed concern or chosen not to send formal observer because they believe the electoral process is not sufficiently inclusive or participatory. Some international voices and diplomatic representatives have been critical of restrictions on major political parties and have urged that conditions be put in place for a credible and transparent election. The Bangladesh Election Commission says roughly 500 foreign observers from groups such as the EU, Commonwealth, and others are expected for the February 12 election. According to a press note, the United Nations has declined the invitation to send an official election observation mission to Bangladesh.

Neighboring country, India has also expressed concerns regarding Bangladesh’s upcoming election, particularly due to questions over its inclusiveness and participatory nature. Reports suggest that India will not send any official observers to monitor the polls, reflecting doubts about the credibility of the electoral process. At the same time, India’s role has become increasingly sensitive in Bangladesh’s domestic politics, as former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has reportedly been given protection and shelter there following the fall of her government. Along with her, several Awami League ministers, former parliament members, and political activists have also sought refuge in India. These developments have contributed to growing public bitterness and have pushed bilateral relations to one of their lowest points in recent years, further complicating the regional and diplomatic atmosphere surrounding the election.

The International Crisis Group has raised significant concerns about Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary election, highlighting deep uncertainty over the electoral process and its credibility. Analysts point out that the political landscape has shifted dramatically with the ban on the Awami League, making it difficult to predict how the polls will unfold and raising fears that millions of traditional supporters may be effectively excluded. The group also warned that disputes over the vote outcome could pose a major challenge for the interim government, especially given weakened law enforcement capacity, rising political tensions, and incidents of violence as the February 12 vote approaches. In addition to domestic issues, the Crisis Group has emphasized that the next government—once elected—will face complex challenges, including fragile institutions, economic pressures, and sensitive foreign policy dynamics with neighbours such as India and wider geopolitical pressures. The European Union (EU) wants Bangladesh to hold an inclusive and participatory election through a peaceful, credible and transparent process. The EU has now offered a fairly redefined perspective on what it understands by the terms inclusive and participatory.

A group of U.S. House Representatives recently sent a formal letter to the interim authorities of Bangladesh, expressing serious concerns about the inclusivity and fairness of the upcoming parliamentary election. In their letter, the lawmakers urged the Bangladeshi government to allow all registered political parties to participate freely in the election, emphasizing that barring any party could undermine the democratic process. They specifically criticized the decision to ban Bangladesh Awami League. The letter also highlighted concerns over political pluralism and transparency, noting that a genuinely competitive election is essential for maintaining public trust in democratic organizations.

Senior British parliamentarian Robert John Blackman addressed serious concern over recent political developments, warning that political exclusion, elections without full participation, and legal actions against opposition figures threaten democratic stability and the rule of law. He raised alarms over reported pressure, constitutional changes, and documented attacks on religious and minority communities. He urged the Bangladeshi displacement in the UK to engage with MPs and called for stronger action from the UK government in addressing these concerns. Another senior British parliamentarian Lord Rami Ranger stated that no superpower can save a nation from within—only its people and values can. Drawing from his own experiences, he stressed by calling for unity and active engagement to protect Bangladesh’s democratic foundations.

As Bangladesh approaches its upcoming election, the nation appearances a serious moment that will test its democratic institutions, political inclusivity, and commitment to the rule of law. With major opposition parties sidelined or divided, questions about justice and transparency appear large, while international attention highlights concerns over political stability and human rights. The coming polls will not only regulate the arrangement of the next government but also outline the country’s democratic course, the confidence of its citizens, and its standing in the global community. Ensuring a free, fair, and participatory election remains essential for Bangladesh to uphold the principles of representative governance and maintain both domestic and international trustworthiness.


Razib Pervez is founder of
Governance Policy Explore
Center, Manchester in England.
He can be reached at [email protected]