The European Union (EU) has taken a concerning stance on Bangladesh’s reform process and elections, and that may bring ill consequences for the nation that was once a regional powerhouse.
On May 5, during a seminar titled ‘DCAB Talk,’ the EU ambassador to Bangladesh, Michael Miller, stated that the EU supports the interim government’s ambitious reform agenda and emphasized the need for sufficient time to implement these reforms effectively.
However, he failed to address the urgent necessity of holding inclusive elections to restore democracy, prevent the erosion of human rights, and curb the rise of Islamic extremism.
Where Reform Clashes with Reality: The Battle for Social Ground
In the present context of Bangladesh, what does reform mean? It refers to a series of actions aimed at rectifying dysfunctional sectors and creating a foundation for a truly operational system. But while these reforms are being implemented, what is happening in the other chapters of the social sector? This is a crucial aspect to examine because if the social fabric is neglected, no reforms in any sector will lead to a better version of administration for the people.
Right at the moment, the country is facing grave domestic crisis after Sheikh Hasina, the former prime minister of Bangladesh, was ousted in a massive violent protest that critic argue that it was a ‘meticulously planned ‘ protest and was a coordinated conspiracy.
Indeed, there are grave concerns on record regarding the large-scale lawlessness being orchestrated by Dr. Yunus’s empowered youth forces, i.e. soalled political party National itizens Party (NCP), aligned with Islamic extremists, Jamaat-e-Islam, Hefazat and Hizbut Tahrir, who are key allies in his pursuit of state power. These forces have been systematically destroying religious shrines of liberal Muslims, committing acts of violence in the name of Shariah justice, and Subjecting women to humiliation under orthodox religious laws for not wearing the headscarf and veil is an unjust in Quranic view and nacked practice.
Women Face Backlash Over Their Modern Rights in Reform Efforts
Most alarmingly, these factions are vehemently opposing proposals for women’s rights reforms that are initiated by the present regime, interestingly amidst silence of the government, labeling them as “anti-Islamic” and “against the Quran.” In a shocking move, they have publicly issued fatwas declaring that women advocating for their rights are akin to prostitutes. This has deepened the rift between two vital societal blocks—men and women. The orthodox forces are now pushing for a social order where women are confined solely to the household, undermining the production capacity of the nation and pushing society toward a dark future.
How is all this happening? Dr. Yunus is allowing it, as simple as that, as these extremist forces form the foundation of his power to enjoy unconstitutionaly. In this context, the EU must reconsider its position and take decisive diplomatic action to safeguard the democratic principles in the country, aligning them with modern global norms.
Why Does Bangladesh Need Urgent, Inclusive Elections?
Several key political parties in Bangladesh have called for immediate elections as the country faces severe lawlessness, deep social divisions, and the alarming rise of ISIS fashioned extremism. Social structures and norms are being systematically undermined under the interim government, led by Dr. Yunus. Exploiting the ongoing lawlessness, the interim government is seeking to extend its unconstitutional rule.
Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus recently claimed that the people of Bangladesh still view the interim government as a “good answer” and that they are not demanding elections. Similarly, Home Adviser Lieutenant General (retd.) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury expressed that the people want the current government to remain in power for another five years.
However, reforms must be continuous and must be carried out by an elected government that holds a legitimate mandate from the people. Any reforms imposed without political support will lack sustainability and inclusivity.
Since the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, reports indicate widespread human rights violations, rampant corruption by the youth leaders once vocal against corruption, and a breakdown of systemic functions across multiple sectors.
The parliamentary system, the backbone of a healthy democracy, has been unlawfully dissolved, and the judicial system has not been spared. The forced removal of all Supreme Court judges, including the Chief Justice, along with many High Court judges and the Attorney General, exemplifies the lack of judicial independence under the current regime.
In a bid to dismantle the Bangladesh Awami League (AL), over 400,000 cases of politically motivated murder and genocide have been filed against AL’s top leaders and activists, with 233 murder cases alone filed against Sheikh Hasina. This strategy aims to instill fear and create a climate of panic, with AL leaders now hiding to avoid arrest and humiliation.
The death toll has skyrocketed, with the UNHRC reporting 329 deaths from July 16 to August 5, 615 by August 11, and a staggering 8,958 deaths by the end of August. The Bangladesh Hindu, Buddhist, Christian Unity Council (BHBCUC) reported 2,010 incidents of violence, including murder and rape, from August 4-20.
Instead of ensuring justice, the Yunus-led interim government has granted special indemnity to those responsible for the violence, further complicating efforts to restore law and order. The financial sector is in disarray, with the removal of Bangladesh Bank’s Governor and Deputy Governors, destabilizing the country’s banking system. Press freedom has also been severely restricted, with several private TV channels shut down and hundreds of journalists harassed, arrested, or forced into hiding.
The garment sector has also suffered, with over 200 factories closing and 134,000 jobs lost. Police officers are increasingly targeted, with 46 killed since the fall of the AL government. In addition, false cases are being lodged, exacerbating the sense of lawlessness.
Alarmingly, the interim government has facilitated the release of life-term convicted terrorists and others linked to extremist groups. The release of these individual top terrors alongside the emptying of jails housing top Islamic militants, raises concerns about the government’s potential to use them to suppress opposition through targeted killings.
In the face of this widespread chaos, an urgent and inclusive election is the only path to restore the rule of law and hold the government accountable for its actions.
Why the EU’s Stance Could Backfire
The EU’s focus on reforms, rather than supporting the call for elections, could embolden the Yunus-led interim government to further entrench its power. The lack of a legitimate electoral mandate for the interim government undermines the democratic process and threatens to deepen lawlessness and human rights abuses.
Dr. Yunus has aligned himself with corrupt political forces, including the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), which is embroiled in mob violence and corruption. This undermines public trust and the legitimacy of his government. If a non-elected government is allowed to extend its rule without public consent, it will undermine the process of democracy, development, and the country’s constitutional integrity.
Moreover, religious extremism is on the rise in Bangladesh, with groups like Hizbut Tahrir openly rallying under the ISIS flag, calling for the imposition of their version of Sharia law. Law Adviser Asif Nazrul’s connections to jihadist networks raise significant concerns about the national security implications of the current government’s policies.
The interim government’s actions are straining relations with neighboring countries, including India, which has expressed concern over rising attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh. In 2024, 2,400 incidents of attacks on minorities were reported, with 72 more cases in 2025. These attacks are being allowed to go unpunished, signaling the government’s lack of commitment to upholding basic human rights.
The government is fostering an environment that harbors extremist groups, rather than ensuring free, fair, and democratic elections. The ultimate goal of any reform process should be to restore discipline and the rule of law, but the Yunus-led administration is undermining both.
What Should the EU’s Stance Be for Bangladesh’s Better Future?
The EU, which stands for democracy, equal rights, and rule of law, should advocate for the immediate restoration of a democratically elected government in Bangladesh. It should exert pressure on the interim government to cease its crackdown on religious minorities and take a firm stance against rising extremism.
The EU can also press the interim government to uphold press freedom, which is crucial for the functioning of a democracy. As a major development partner for Bangladesh, the EU’s investments and partnerships are at risk due to the country’s deteriorating political and social environment.
For the sake of both Bangladesh’s and the EU’s future interests, it is essential that Bangladesh holds urgent, free, and fair elections. A stable democracy, underpinned by the will of the people, is the best way to secure the long-term development and prosperity of Bangladesh.
In the end, the EU must prioritize a free, fair, and inclusive election as the essential first step toward restoring democracy and securing a better future for the people of Bangladesh.
