The Australian High Commission and the United Nations signed an agreement today (18 June 2025), with Australia becoming the first partner to support the BALLOT Project – a joint initiative implemented by UNDP, UN Women, and UNESCO to assist Bangladesh ahead of a national election.

The agreement was signed at the Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) by the Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh H.E. Susan Ryle,  and Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh Stefan Liller, in the presence of Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, UNESCO Country Representative Dr. Susan Vize and UN Women Deputy Representative Navanita Sinha.

The BALLOT Project aims to strengthen the institutional capacity of BEC, support the planning and implementation of an inclusive and peaceful electoral process, and promote informed civic engagement. This includes targeted civic and voter education campaigns for vulnerable groups, including women, youth, minorities, persons with disabilities, elderly voters, and first-time voters.

The BALLOT Project also places strong emphasis on enhancing women’s participation, not only as voters but also as candidates, polling officials, observers, and party agents. Additionally, it includes a dedicated component on media and elections, supporting freedom of expression, journalist safety, and countering misinformation and disinformation during the electoral period.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin welcomed the partnership, noting, “The BALLOT Project will help us strengthen systems, build trust, and deliver elections that all citizens can believe in.”

Her Excellency Susan Ryle Australian High Commissioner to Bangladesh said “Australia supports Bangladesh on its pathway to democratic elections. We are pleased to announce that we will contribute AUD2 million to support the Bangladesh Election Commission’s BALLOT Project in partnership with the United Nations.”

“The BALLOT Project reflects the United Nations’ strong and ongoing commitment to support democratic governance in Bangladesh,” said Stefan Liller. “Australia’s leadership in becoming the first funding partner to support the BALLOT Project is a vital step in ensuring a credible, inclusive, and transparent electoral process.”

Australia will provide AUD2 million to support the strengthening of the institutional, technical, and operational capacity of the Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) in partnership with the UN. Supporting elections and sustainability, aligns with Australia’s broader development cooperation focus on strengthening democratic institutions, improving essential services, and promoting equitable governance.

Note to Editor:

Australia’s Support to the BALLOT Project: Strengthening Democracy in Bangladesh

Australia has been a committed partner in Bangladesh’s democratic journey since becoming the first developed country to recognise its independence in 1971. Our diplomatic ties, established in 1972 and celebrated through 50 years of partnership in 2022, are rooted in shared democratic values and mutual respect.

Continuing this legacy, Australia is proud to be among the first development partners to support the Bangladesh Democratic General Election Support (BALLOT) Project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This initiative aims to strengthen the institutional, technical, and operational capacity of the Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC), foster a credible and inclusive electoral environment, and support a sustainable political transition.

Australia’s AUD 2 million contribution to Phase I of the BALLOT Project will help:

• Enhance the BEC’s ability to deliver transparent and inclusive elections;

• Promote peaceful and participatory electoral processes, especially for women, youth, and marginalized groups;

• Lay the foundation for long-term electoral sustainability and institutional reform.

This support reflects Australia’s broader commitment to governance reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law—contributing to a more stable and equitable Bangladesh.