Election Narratives Shape Global Perceptions: UNDP

UNDP Resident Representative for Bangladesh Stefan Liller on Sunday said election reporting now extends far beyond national borders, warning that electoral narratives can significantly shape international confidence, diplomatic engagement and perceptions of a country’s democratic maturity.

He underscored the importance of accuracy, neutrality and ethical judgment in election coverage, noting that journalistic work in Bangladesh is closely monitored by diplomats, international observers, development partners, investors and global media.

"As a result, election narratives can influence international confidence, diplomatic engagement and perceptions of a country’s image and democratic maturity,” Liller said, adding that this places a special responsibility on journalists reporting on elections in a diplomatic context.

He made the remarks at the closing session of a two-day training programme on election reporting held in the capital.

As Bangladesh approaches a crucial electoral milestone, Liller said the role of journalists is both demanding and indispensable. “Democracy is sustained not only by laws and institutions, but by informed citizens. Journalists are central to that process,” he added.

Liller stressed that electoral developments should be reported within the country’s constitutional and legal frameworks, as well as its international commitments under the UN Charter, international human rights instruments and the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly Goal 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions.

Responsible reporting, he said, helps ensure that political competition is understood internationally as part of a lawful, rules-based democratic process.

Describing elections as one of the most technically and politically sensitive aspects of democratic governance, Liller said journalists act as a vital bridge between institutions and citizens. At times of intense political competition, he noted, professional and ethical reporting directly contributes to public trust, democratic legitimacy and social cohesion.

He cautioned that misinformation or imprecise reporting can unintentionally heighten tensions and undermine confidence in electoral outcomes.

Liller also drew attention to growing global risks from misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and digitally manipulated content, including material generated or amplified through artificial intelligence.

“Protecting information integrity is inseparable from protecting journalists themselves,” he said, noting that journalists increasingly face harassment, intimidation and threats both online and offline. “Safe journalists are essential to safe elections,” he added.

On gender and inclusion, Liller said women candidates, activists and journalists are disproportionately targeted by technology-facilitated gender-based violence, including online harassment, intimidation, sexualised disinformation and doxxing.

Such attacks, he said, aim to silence voices and discourage political participation. The media, he added, plays a crucial role in exposing these patterns, amplifying women’s experiences and framing such abuses as violations of democratic rights.

By challenging stereotypes and highlighting barriers faced by women in politics, Liller said, the media can help promote broader participation and strengthen the inclusiveness and legitimacy of electoral processes.