Greek MEP Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR) has asked the European Commission to assess whether Bangladesh's upcoming parliamentary elections meet democratic standards, warning that irregularities could jeopardise the country's access to the EU's GSP+ trade preferences. The written question, submitted on 27 April 2026, cites reports of the suspension of the largest opposition party, mass arrests, intimidation of lawyers and journalists, and violence against religious minorities.
Fragkos specifically asks the Commission to evaluate the credibility and inclusiveness of the 12 February 2026 elections, given the exclusion of a major political party and broader restrictions on political and civil liberties. He also inquires whether the Commission is considering launching a formal review of Bangladesh's GSP+ eligibility if concerns are confirmed, and what diplomatic or monitoring measures—including election observation and dialogue—are being taken to promote free and fair elections.
The question invokes Article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights on participation in public affairs, framing the issue as a test of Bangladesh's compliance with the human rights conventions that underpin GSP+ benefits. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will signal whether Brussels views the situation as a breach serious enough to trigger a review of trade preferences.
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