The European Union Election Observation Mission on Saturday announced that it had deployed 56 long-term observers across Bangladesh to monitor the upcoming general election, scheduled for February 12.

The EU EOM deputy chief observer, Inta Lase, made the announcement and briefed about the mission’s methodology.

‘Our observers are going to the far corners of the country. Today, we are deploying 56 people who will visit election administrations, attend rallies, and meet with candidates, civil society, and citizen observer groups,’ Lase said.

She added that the observers would follow a nationwide approach in line with the EU’s standard practice of observing electoral processes ahead of the polling day.

The observers are guided by three principles, impartiality, independence, and non-interference, she said.

Lase clarified that the mission’s role would be limited to observation.

‘We are invited to observe, not to interfere. If we observe an incident, we will not report it immediately to the Election Commission, as that would overstep our mandate. Instead, our team will analyse these findings to assess how they affect the overall electoral process,’ she added.

The number of observers is expected to increase closer to the election.

Lase said that around 90 short-term observers would arrive from Europe, along with a delegation from the European Parliament.

She again added that diplomats from EU member states and partner countries, including Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, would also support the mission.

The EU EOM would not publish findings during the campaign period.

A preliminary statement with initial observations would be presented at a press conference two days after the election, she said.

A final report, including technical recommendations for future electoral processes, is expected to be published about two months after the election concludes, Lase added.