EU Supports BD's Transition from Autocracy to Democracy

Michael Miller, Ambassador and Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Bangladesh, emphasized the EU's commitment to supporting Bangladesh's transition from "autocracy to democracy" during a keynote speech at a dialogue on Bangladesh-EU relations. The event, titled "Bangladesh-European Union Relations: Prognosis for the Future," was organized by the Cosmos Foundation and the Bay of Bengal Institute.

Ambassador Miller expressed the EU's desire to see Bangladesh succeed in its political transition, becoming a reliable partner in international organizations. “We are here to work with you, offering expertise, investment, and partnership,” he said, emphasizing the EU’s support for Bangladesh 2.0, the country’s evolving political and economic landscape.

Highlighting the importance of reforms, Miller stressed the need for respect for human rights, due process, and the rule of law. “Human rights are universal. They apply to your citizens as well as to ours,” he noted, urging Bangladesh to uphold these principles. He also called for an impartial and efficient judiciary, as well as reforms that ensure the rights of all citizens, including the fair treatment of detainees.

The event, part of the Cosmos Dialogue lecture series, was chaired by Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, a renowned scholar-diplomat. Enayetullah Khan, Chairman of the Cosmos Foundation, opened the session, underscoring the strategic importance of EU-Bangladesh relations. He also stressed the need for Bangladesh to enhance its skill development sector to improve youth employment opportunities and address the growing challenges of climate change.

Professor Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir and Dr. Lailufar Yasmin highlighted the need for deeper EU cooperation on climate resilience and green industrialization, as well as addressing the Rohingya crisis through enhanced capacity-building.

Ambassador Miller outlined the EU’s strategic goals, which include fostering prosperity, promoting sustainable growth, and combating climate change. He also mentioned the EU’s commitment to increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh, which currently stands at 2 billion euros, with ambitions to grow it significantly.

Addressing the need for a diversified economy, Miller noted the importance of transitioning to green energy and the EU’s desire to partner with Bangladesh in this effort. "Without political ambition, you won’t succeed in your green energy transition," he stated, emphasizing the need for bold action.

The event brought together key diplomats, academics, and policymakers, all of whom agreed that Bangladesh’s future success relies on strong partnerships, strategic reforms, and collaboration with the international community, particularly the EU.