Australia Announces AUS$ 2 Million Support for Bangladesh’s Electoral Process

Australia has committed AUS$ 2 million to aid Bangladesh in conducting a transparent, inclusive, and peaceful national election. This contribution will complement the existing US$ 18.53 million BALLOT project, managed by Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The formal agreement was signed today at the Election Commission Secretariat in Dhaka, with the Australian High Commissioner in Dhaka, Susan Ryle, and UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative, Stefan Liller, signing on behalf of their respective organizations. The event was attended by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, EC senior secretary Akhtar Ahmed, UNESCO Country Representative Dr. Susan Vize, and UN Women Deputy Representative Navanita Sinha, among others.

Akhtar Ahmed highlighted the long-standing support from UNDP, noting that the $18.53 million project encompasses 16 key components related to the electoral process, including capacity building, awareness campaigns, training, and institutional strengthening. He also emphasized Australia’s specific contribution of 2 million dollars and expressed hope for additional donor support to sustain the project until December 31, 2027.

He recounted how initial support included providing laptops, scanners, cameras, and office equipment during voter registration, and mentioned that today’s signings mark the continuation of that support through a formal Memorandum of Understanding.

The three-year joint initiative aims to bolster the Election Commission’s capacity, promote an inclusive and peaceful election, and encourage informed civic engagement especially among vulnerable groups such as women, youth, minorities, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and first-time voters.

Australian High Commissioner Susan Ryle stated, “Australia supports Bangladesh on its pathway to democratic elections, and we are pleased to contribute AUS$ 2 million to the BALLOT Project in partnership with the United Nations.”

Stefan Liller added that the project exemplifies the UN’s strong commitment to supporting democratic governance in Bangladesh. He emphasized that Australia’s role as the first funding partner is crucial for ensuring a credible, inclusive, and transparent electoral process, with a particular focus on empowering women as voters, candidates, officials, and observers.