‘Next polls a significant stone in the foundation of democracy’

Young politicians and diplomats from Sweden and Norway have described Bangladesh’s upcoming national election as a “significant stone in the foundation of democracy,” expressing optimism for a peaceful and inclusive transition of power.

Their remarks came at a reception jointly organised by the Swedish and Norwegian Embassies in Dhaka in collaboration with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) on Tuesday evening. The event welcomed a visiting delegation of youth politicians from both Nordic countries who had spent several days engaging with Bangladeshi leaders and communities.

Swedish Ambassador Nicolas Weeks said the programme aimed to “foster dialogue and strengthen connections between countries,” stressing that genuine encounters matter more than headlines.

“The visit provided the young leaders with a broad and honest picture of Bangladesh — its challenges, its resilience, and its aspirations,” Weeks said.

The delegation met with the Chief Adviser, Chief Justice, and members of the Election Commission, and observed Swedish-funded development projects addressing climate change and urban poverty. They also travelled to climate-vulnerable regions, meeting local politicians, activists, and community leaders.

Weeks noted that the discussions covered a wide range of issues, including political transition, climate resilience, youth activism, and international cooperation.

“This is not just about observing — it’s about building understanding and long-term collaboration,” he added.

Norwegian Ambassador Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen echoed the sentiment, recalling a remark by Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser that “youth leaders are not the future leaders, they are the current leaders.”

Gulbrandsen said such engagement was essential to “build democracy stone by stone,” adding that young leaders’ exposure to other democratic contexts was invaluable for shaping an inclusive global future.

UNDP’s Resident Representative in Bangladesh, Stefan Liller, said the initiative sought to deepen young politicians’ understanding of development cooperation and humanitarian work.

“By witnessing the work of the UN and other international organisations on the ground, these future decision-makers gain a deeper, long-term perspective on global challenges,” he said.

Alice Landholm, from Sweden’s Modern Youth Party, said the visit had been “deeply inspiring.” She praised the progress Bangladesh has made in economic and social development, and the “remarkable empowerment” of women in vulnerable communities supported by international aid programmes.

“I was struck by the respect for youth in Bangladeshi politics and the determination of local leaders to drive change,” Landholm said. “It’s a reminder of how democracy grows through shared learning and solidarity.”

Landholm added that she and her peers hoped to stay engaged with Bangladesh’s development journey and democratic evolution. “The visit has left us with lasting connections and a clearer understanding of how international cooperation can make a difference,” she said.

As Bangladesh prepares for a pivotal election, the Nordic delegates’ visit underscored a growing international interest in the country’s democratic transition — and a belief that engaging the next generation is key to sustaining it.