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Description: Stakeholder Dialogue on the Report on the National Parliamentary Election and National Referendum 2026 A Stakeholder Dialogue on the Report on the National Parliamentary Election and National Referendum 2026 is a consultative platform bringing together relevant stakeholders to review, discuss, and provide feedback on the findings and recommendations of the election and referendum report. The dialogue aims to promote transparency, accountability, inclusive participation, and constructive dialogue among stakeholders. Participants will discuss key observations, challenges, lessons learned, electoral processes, citizen participation, and areas requiring further attention or improvement. The session will also provide an opportunity for stakeholders—including civil society organizations, NGOs, community representatives, development partners, media, youth and women’s representatives, and relevant institutions—to share their perspectives and recommendations. Key objectives: Present and discuss the major findings of the 2026 report. Facilitate stakeholder feedback and constructive discussion. Identify key challenges, lessons learned, and good practices. Promote inclusive and informed civic and democratic participation. Develop recommendations for strengthening future electoral processes. Encourage collaboration among stakeholders for transparent, accountable, and participatory democracy. Expected outcome: The dialogue will generate practical stakeholder recommendations and shared understanding of the report findings, contributing to stronger electoral governance, citizen engagement, and democratic processes in Bangladesh.   Here are some of the moments:

About Light House, an AFED Member Light House is a nationally recognized voluntary nonprofit organization founded in 1988 in Bangladesh, initially established to respond to the needs of flood victims. As the Member Secretary organization of the Alliance for Fair Election and Democracy (AFED), Light House plays a crucial role in strengthening democratic practices and enhancing electoral governance across the country. Our commitment to fostering transparent elections is evident through our active promotion of election observation, civic education, advocacy, and strategic networking. We strive to empower marginalized and vulnerable communities—including climate-affected women, youth, and high-risk populations—by implementing rights-based programs focused on health, human rights, governance, climate adaptation, and sustainable development. In addition to our core initiatives, Light House serves as a board member of the Climate Action Network for South Asia-Bangladesh (CANSA-BD), further demonstrating our dedication to addressing climate change and its impact on communities. Through our multifaceted approach, Light House works to create a more equitable and just society for all Bangladeshis.

AFED Master Trainers Are Ready! AFED’s Master Trainers are now fully prepared to cascade their knowledge to Sample-Based Observers (SBOs) and Short-Term Observers (STOs)—strengthening the generation of reliable, neutral, and evidence-based findings on the quality of the 13th National Parliamentary Election of Bangladesh. 6–7 January & 8–9 January 2026 A total of 56 Master Trainers enhanced their capacities through two intensive training programs, deepening their understanding of: Electoral governance Electoral and legal frameworks Election observation tools and techniques Other critical election observation-related issues These two-day trainings were initiated by the Alliance for Fair Elections and Democracy (AFED)- , with technical support from the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD) and funding from the European Union. Overall coordination by AFED Secretariat- Light House. The sessions were conducted by a strong resource pool comprising experts from AFED member organizations (Democracywatch, Khan Foundation, Light House, and Rupantar), the Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC)—along with other experienced election experts. Overall coordination facilitated by AFED Secretariat- Light House. This nationwide initiative aims to empower impartial, professional citizen election observers and contribute to more credible, transparent, and accountable elections in Bangladesh. Together, we work for democracy, integrity, and public trust in the electoral process.