IRI to send 10 foreign observers for February elections

The representatives raise concerns over the use of AI and disinformation in election campaigns

US-based research organisation International Republican Institute (IRI) has said it will send at least 10 international observers to monitor Bangladesh’s upcoming general election in February.

The announcement came on Tuesday during a meeting between IRI representatives and Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna.

Christopher Fussner, a member of IRI’s board of directors and head of the visiting delegation, said: “We will have robust election observation in February”, adding that election observers reduce the risk of violence during polls.

As part of their pre-election assessment, the delegation is scheduled to hold meetings with various political parties.

"All parties want election. From our experience of the previous elections, we can see a positive atmosphere, which feels really good. We could tell the difference between the previous election and this election,” Fussner said.

The delegation also stressed the importance of involving civil society, particularly local observers like students, to increase electoral transparency. They highlighted the risks of misinformation during the election period.

Yunus said, “The biggest threat to democracy today is disinformation. It’s well-planned, well-funded and creates tension immediately. By the time the truth comes out, people have already reacted.”

Fussner expressed concern over the use of artificial intelligence to manipulate public opinion and create fake images.

Yunus reaffirmed that Bangladesh is progressing towards a “peaceful and inclusive” election, describing the July Charter as a major milestone in the country’s democratic journey, saying: “This puts us another step ahead of the election.”