The European Union along with Norway and Switzerland has called for the government, Election Commission and all stakeholders to ensure a genuine, credible, inclusive and transparent election.
On Monday (Dec 10), a joint media statement signed by the Heads of Mission of the European states was published.
The statement read that the Heads of Mission urge all stakeholders to uphold and protect the citizens' rights to universal suffrage, freedom of expression and right to peaceful assembly and welcome the commitments made by the Bangladesh Election Commission and the Government of Bangladesh in this respect.
They also urged all political parties to meet their democratic responsibilities and to refrain from violence; and law enforcement agencies to strictly adhere to the rule of law.
The statement emphasized on the importance of media and civil society scrutiny in ensuring transparency throughout the electoral process.
The European nations also pressed the point that participatory elections constitute an important step in the ongoing process of national development for all Bangladeshi citizens.
The 11th National Election is scheduled to take place on Dec 30. The Election Commission has allocated the electoral symbol for the candidate on Monday (Dec 10).