Norway Extends Support to UN’s BALLOT Project to Strengthen Inclusive Local Government Elections in Bangladesh

The Government of Norway and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today signed a partnership agreement at the Norwegian Embassy to extend Norway's support to the BALLOT project.

Under this renewed partnership, Norway will provide an additional contribution of NOK 2 million to support inclusive and credible local government elections in Bangladesh, with a strong focus on women's political participation and leadership. The extended support will continue until May 2027.

The agreement was signed by Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen, Ambassador of Norway to Bangladesh, and Sonali Dayaratne, Officer-in-Charge, UNDP Bangladesh.

The new phase of support will focus on three key areas: strengthening women's political participation and leadership, supporting inclusive and credible local government electoral processes, and activating and strengthening the Parliamentary Women's Caucus in Bangladesh.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen said, "Local governance is central to inclusive democracy. Norway is pleased to continue its partnership with UNDP to support credible local elections and strengthen women's participation in political life. Ensuring that more women can take part as voters, candidates, and leaders is essential for building a stronger and more representative democracy."

Sonali Dayaratne, Officer-in-Charge, UNDP Bangladesh, said, "Local government elections are a critical milestone of democracy. This additional contribution from the Government of Norway will help sustain support to the Bangladesh Election Commission for holding credible and inclusive local government elections. It will also contribute to supporting better women's representation in local government institutions."

The support comes at a crucial moment as Bangladesh prepares for local elections. While the recent National Parliamentary Election saw 59.4 percent voter turnout, women's representation remains low, with only seven women directly elected despite 87 women candidates. This new phase of the BALLOT project will focus on strengthening women's participation, leadership, and representation in the upcoming local elections.

The Parliamentary Women's Caucus will also be supported under this new phase.

The BALLOT project supports Bangladesh's efforts to strengthen credible, inclusive, and transparent electoral processes by enhancing the capacity of the Bangladesh Election Commission and promoting wider participation in democratic governance. Implemented by UNDP with support from development partners including Australia, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and in collaboration with UN Women, UNESCO, and UNODC, the project works across the electoral cycle to advance institutional reform, voter confidence, women's political participation, and more inclusive local elections.