Bangladesh is entering a critical electoral period ahead of its national elections scheduled for February 2026, with human rights organisations calling on political parties and institutions to consolidate recent reforms and strengthen protections to ensure a credible and inclusive democratic process.
In a briefing published on Saturday, Amnesty International outlined a range of human rights priorities that it said should form part of the national agenda before, during and after the polls. The organisation stressed that safeguarding civil liberties and accountability would be essential to sustaining public confidence in the election environment and democratic institutions
Freedom of expression remains a key focus. While concerns persist over the application of cyber and security laws, Amnesty noted ongoing discussions around legislative amendments, which rights groups view as an opportunity to bring domestic laws into closer alignment with international standards. Observers say that a freer media environment and protection for journalists will be central to ensuring informed public debate during the election period
The report also revisits the violent protests of mid-2024, describing them as a defining moment that reshaped Bangladesh’s political landscape. According to findings cited from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), at least 1,400 people were killed during unrest linked to student-led demonstrations over public sector recruitment reforms, with thousands more arrested. The subsequent political transition has prompted renewed calls for accountability, judicial independence and security sector reform—issues widely seen as necessary to prevent a recurrence of violence during future political contests
Despite these challenges, rights advocates say the current electoral phase offers an opening to rebuild trust in state institutions. Amnesty has urged authorities to pursue transparent investigations, cooperate with international mechanisms and ensure due process, arguing that visible steps towards justice would reinforce confidence in the rule of law ahead of the elections
The situation of indigenous peoples and religious minorities also features prominently in the briefing. Longstanding grievances in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and recent attacks on Hindu communities have underscored the need for stronger protections and inclusive policymaking. Analysts note that meaningful engagement with minority groups and fair representation in public institutions could contribute to a more stable and participatory electoral climate
Women’s rights and political participation are another area of concern. While legal safeguards exist, early marriage, domestic violence and low female representation in politics persist. With women making up a small fraction of nominated candidates, rights groups have called on parties to take proactive steps to include more women in decision-making roles, arguing that broader participation would enhance the legitimacy of the electoral process
Beyond electoral mechanics, the briefing highlights wider socio-economic issues that shape the political environment. The presence of more than one million Rohingya refugees, pressures on the garment sector workforce and Bangladesh’s acute vulnerability to climate change all remain central policy challenges. Amnesty said addressing these concerns through rights-based approaches would help demonstrate responsible governance during the election period
The organisation also pointed to the absence of executions in 2024 as a potential opening for further reform on the death penalty, suggesting that a moratorium could signal progress on human rights commitments ahead of the polls
As campaigning gathers pace, rights groups have emphasised that credible elections depend not only on voting day arrangements but also on the broader political environment. They argue that sustained reform, inclusive participation and respect for fundamental rights could help ensure that Bangladesh’s 2026 elections take place in a climate of stability, confidence and democratic renewal.
