The European Union (EU) expressed its hope that the interim government in Bangladesh will complete the democratic election process through necessary reforms. This expectation was shared by an EU delegation, led by Ambassador Michael Miller, during a meeting on Monday, October 27, with Md. Nahid Islam, Advisor to the Ministries of Posts, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Information and Broadcasting, at the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications.
According to a press release from the advisor’s office, Nahid Islam requested EU support to counter misinformation circulating globally about the recent public uprising and to ensure justice for victims of violence. He also requested EU assistance for the treatment and rehabilitation of those injured in the events.
Ambassador Michael Miller reiterated EU’s support for the interim government, emphasizing fundamental rights, digitalization, media reform, and the electoral process. He expressed optimism that the interim government would complete all necessary reforms before the democratic elections.
Advisor Nahid Islam affirmed that political reforms are a priority, as successful elections hinge on proper reforms. “We are aiming for a democratic transition as quickly as possible, while addressing core reforms beforehand. Our main challenges are economic stability and maintaining law and order,” he added.
He further noted that ongoing development projects with partner agencies would continue, though some are under review. Efforts are being made to create an investment-friendly environment for foreign entities, which will generate employment opportunities.
Ambassador Miller expressed EU’s interest in collaborating with Bangladesh on cybersecurity, e-governance, digital infrastructure, data protection, and IT setups, and said they are ready to provide technical support. He also highlighted a €10 million e-Effective Governance project agreement with the ICT Division and conveyed EU’s commitment to counter misinformation on social media.
Nahid Islam sought EU’s support to curb online misinformation, adding, “We are considering ways to enhance media quality and professionalism. Effective changes require professional practice, training, and security, along with a better salary structure to attract young talent to the media sector.”
The interim government, focusing on media freedom and reform, has already formed a Media Reform Commission to ensure media independence, with an official gazette expected soon. Recommendations will be collected from stakeholders to formulate a consensus-driven reform framework, said the Advisor to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Dr. Md. Mushfiqur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications; Shish Haider Chowdhury, Secretary of the ICT Division; and Fanny Pharmaki, Program Manager of the EU Delegation, along with other senior officials were also present at the meeting.
