EU statement on the preparation for general elections in Bangladesh

Brussels, Nov. 30 (EU Statement) — The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and
Vice President of the Commission, Catherine Ashton, issued the following statement today:
“Following the announcement of the general elections in Bangladesh on 5 January 2014, the EU remains concerned that there is still confrontation between the major political groups in
the country on the composition of the government during the electoral period. The EU calls on the leaders of all political parties to agree on a mutually acceptable formula so as to
facilitate the holding of elections which fully reflect the wishes of the people. It welcomes the
efforts of those who have been working to achieve this.
We urge political leaders to refrain from any actions that could spark further violence. The EU
remains concerned about intimidation and confrontation in the form of ‘hartals’ (political
strikes) and about the arrest of politicians and human rights defenders. The EU urges
Bangladesh to respect human rights and democratic principles, and to ensure full respect for
the rights of detainees. Civil society groups must be able to play their fundamental role in the
maintenance of democratic freedoms.
The EU is ready to consider sending election observers as it did in 2008. However, this
depends on the political and security situation in Bangladesh. Ending violence and finding a
political solution through dialogue are essential to allow a peaceful, inclusive, transparent
and credible election to take place. This can only happen if all sides can agree to move ahead,
in the interests of the country’s future.”