Washington, Feb 24 (NationPress) The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) has provided support to various political and civic entities in Bangladesh as the country approaches the anticipated collapse of Sheikh Hasina’s administration in 2024. This support includes initiatives aimed at electoral reform, voter education, and independent journalism, as stated by the organization's president during a session with US lawmakers on Tuesday.

During his testimony before the Subcommittee on National Security, Department of State, & Related Programs of the House Committee on Appropriations, NED President and CEO Damon Wilson remarked, “NED’s assistance is crucial for Bangladesh as it strives to break away from over a decade of authoritarianism, violence, and turmoil.”

Wilson informed the lawmakers that for more than 20 years, NED has been empowering partners focused on enhancing political parties and parliamentary frameworks, promoting labor rights, fostering inclusive economic growth, and ensuring independent reporting on human rights and corruption—efforts particularly vital during Sheikh Hasina's regime, which is set to end in 2024.

He emphasized, “This is a pivotal moment for Bangladesh to restore tranquility and advance democratic governance and reform.”

As he highlighted the pre-election phase, Wilson noted, “Leading up to the recent elections, NED-supported partners and core institutions played a significant role in pushing for electoral reforms, ensuring election integrity, and educating voters, marking a vital step towards reestablishing multiparty democracy.”

He further stated that “The enduring relationships and expertise of NED and its core partners will empower local actors to enhance accountability, protect fundamental freedoms, and reinforce democratic institutions as Bangladeshis endeavor to cultivate a sustainable democratic future.”

Wilson's discussion on Bangladesh was part of a larger testimony detailing what he described as “a critical period for freedom worldwide.”

He clarified that NED’s initiatives are rooted in empowering local civic actors and institutions instead of imposing foreign models.

In the Fiscal Year 2025, NED allocated $271 million in grants, supporting over 1,550 projects in more than 90 nations.

As per the testimony, 86 percent of direct grants were under $150,000, focusing on independent media, civic organizations, labor and business associations, and reform projects.

The National Endowment for Democracy was established by the US Congress in 1983 under the Reagan administration to fund democratic initiatives abroad.

US officials characterize it as a democracy-supporting organization that operates through grants and collaborations with civil society organizations globally.