Diplomatic Desk:
Canada is providing $2 million to the BALLOT Project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to strengthen a free, fair and participatory electoral system in Bangladesh. With this support, the country has joined the list of top donors to the project. This financial assistance is expected to play a significant role in enhancing the capacity of the Bangladesh Election Commission ahead of the upcoming 2026 national elections.
Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, and UNDP Country Representative Stefan Liler were present at a formal signing ceremony held at the Bangladesh Election Commission office on Sunday (8 February 2026).
This new grant continues Canada’s long-standing support for the democratic process and citizen participation in Bangladesh. The assistance will be particularly effective in combating misinformation and confusion, as well as ensuring the participation of marginalized communities, youth, women, indigenous peoples and minority communities, the sources said.
The Canadian government said that this multi-year grant will support a peaceful democratic transition in Bangladesh. Through this, the long-standing bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Canada will be further deepened and the path to building a better future for the people of both countries will be paved.
