Dhaka, Aug 17 (V7N) — The Election Commission of Bangladesh has introduced a new policy requiring foreign election observers and international journalists to submit an application in a specific format containing 14 mandatory data fields before being allowed to monitor the upcoming national parliamentary elections.
 
As per the new guidelines, the entire approval process will be handled solely by the Election Commission. Previously, such approvals were managed in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Now, the commission will recommend eligible applicants for visa processing, which will then be arranged by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs based on that recommendation. Visa denial by the ministry will require an official explanation.
 
The mandatory form for foreign observers must include details such as full name, nationality, organizational affiliation, passport number, visa type, contact information, and prior experience in election observation or human rights, governance, peacebuilding, or democracy-related work. Applications must be submitted within a 30-day window announced by the Election Commission.
 
Observers approved under this process will have limited access to polling centers on election day. They will be permitted to enter the polling stations but must comply with restrictions set by the respective presiding officers and cannot remain inside for an extended period.
 
To facilitate international arrivals, the immigration authorities will set up a dedicated help desk at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport ten days before the election. The Election Commission will coordinate with the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure appropriate security and logistical support for observers and journalists traveling to districts or specific constituencies.
 
Foreign journalists covering the election will follow the same application and vetting process. Local authorities and returning officers will be directed to cooperate with approved international visitors.
 
Several international organizations have already expressed interest in monitoring the upcoming election, and pre-election visits by observer delegations are expected to begin shortly.
 
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