key Notes from Press Statement
The U.S. expresses its support for democracy and human rights in Bangladesh, but criticizes the 2024 elections as unfair and marred by violence and arrests. The U.S. calls for investigations and accountability and reaffirms its commitment to cooperate with Bangladesh on regional and economic issues.
- U.S. backs Bangladeshis’ democratic rights and freedoms.
- U.S. acknowledges Awami League’s victory in flawed elections.
- U.S. concerned by opposition arrests and election irregularities
- U.S. condemns violence before and during elections
- U.S. calls for credible investigations and accountability
- U.S. urges all parties to reject violence
- U.S. reaffirms partnership with Bangladesh for a free and open Indo-Pacific
- U.S. supports human rights and civil society in Bangladesh
- U.S. strengthens people-to-people and economic ties with Bangladesh
The United States supports the people of Bangladesh and their aspirations for democracy, freedom of peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression. The United States notes the Awami League party won a majority of seats in the January 7, 2024 parliamentary elections. The United States remains concerned by the arrests of thousands of political opposition members and by reports of irregularities on elections day. The United States shares the view with other observers that these elections were not free or fair and we regret that not all parties participated.
The United States condemns violence that took place during elections and in the months leading up to it. We encourage the Government of Bangladesh to credibly investigate reports of violence and to hold perpetrators accountable. We also urge all political parties to reject violence.
Looking ahead, the United States remains committed to partnering with Bangladesh to advance our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, to supporting human rights and civil society in Bangladesh, and to deepening our people-to-people and economic ties.
MATTHEW MILLER, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON
JANUARY 8, 2024
- Parliamentary Elections in Bangladesh – United States Department of State  Department of State
