Dhaka, July 3 (V7N) - Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed an agreement to jointly support Bangladesh’s electoral process, committing $4.8 million in assistance to the Election Commission (EC). The support aims to strengthen the country’s efforts to conduct free, transparent, and inclusive national elections.
 
The agreement was signed on Wednesday at the Election Commission headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka, by Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori (Note: update with current name if changed) and UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal, other election commissioners, EC Secretary, and senior officials including Japan’s Director-General for International Cooperation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hide Ishizuki, were present at the event.
 
Under the agreement, Japan will provide approximately $4.8 million to enhance the EC’s institutional, technical, and operational capabilities. The project’s objectives include improving voter and civic education, encouraging broader participation of women, youth, and underrepresented communities, and ensuring transparency and integrity throughout the electoral process.
 
Speaking at the signing ceremony, CEC A.M.M. Nasir Uddin welcomed the initiative, stating, “This partnership will help us strengthen our operational framework, bolster public trust, and uphold democratic values as we prepare for the upcoming national election.”
 
Japanese Ambassador Saida Shinichi emphasized Japan’s commitment to Bangladesh’s democratic journey. “Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture in its democratic trajectory. Japan deeply respects and supports the country's efforts to ensure free, fair, and inclusive elections. We believe this partnership through UNDP will significantly contribute to that goal,” he said.
 
UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller expressed gratitude for Japan’s long-standing partnership and generous support. “This contribution will help ensure peaceful and credible elections that genuinely reflect the will of the people. It adds momentum to our shared vision of strengthening democratic governance in Bangladesh,” he noted.
 
A press statement from the Japanese Embassy said Bangladesh is currently undergoing a historic political transition, with national elections expected by the first half of 2026. The project responds to a formal request from the Election Commission and reflects the joint commitment of Japan, UNDP, and Bangladesh to promote democratic governance, electoral integrity, and inclusive political participation.
 
This initiative is part of Japan’s broader diplomatic strategy in the Indo-Pacific region, promoting peace, human security, and democratic development. The funding will be utilized through the UNDP’s existing electoral support framework in Bangladesh.
 
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