Japan Commits $4.8 Million for Bangladesh's National Election

Japan has pledged $4.8 million to support the Election Commission (EC) of Bangladesh in implementing its ballot project for the national parliamentary election. The project, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has a total estimated cost of $10.53 million.

On Wednesday (July 2), a related agreement was signed at the Election Commission building in Agargaon, Dhaka. The event was attended by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller, Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi, and Hideo Ishizuki, Director General of the International Cooperation Bureau of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

EC officials stated that the funds will be utilized to enhance the institutional, technical, and managerial capacities of the Election Commission. Additionally, the initiative aims to strengthen voter and civic education, increase participation of women and youth, ensure representation of marginalized communities, and promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

Japanese Ambassador Saida Shinichi said, “Bangladesh is at a critical juncture in its democratic journey. Japan respects Bangladesh’s sovereign rights and supports its democratic transformation through free, fair, and inclusive elections. This assistance through UNDP will make a significant contribution.”

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin remarked, “Japan’s support will strengthen our efforts and assist in organizing an acceptable election while upholding democratic values.”

UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller expressed gratitude for Japan’s generosity and long-standing partnership, stating, “This collaboration will facilitate peaceful and credible elections, reflecting the true will of the people. It is part of the friendship between Bangladesh and Japan and their commitment to peace and democratic progress in the Indo-Pacific region.”

After the event, EC Senior Secretary Md. Akhtar Ahmed told journalists, “Japan has committed $4.8 million in assistance today (Wednesday). We hope the EC will utilize these funds appropriately. UNDP has already been providing support, and this continues that commitment.” Earlier, on June 18, Australia pledged $2 million for the same project.