The United States has announced a new visa policy to support Bangladesh’s goal of holding free and fair national elections on 24th May.
The announcement contained a set of frequently asked questions with responses.
Under this policy, the United States will be able to restrict the issuance of visas for any Bangladeshi individual, who are responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh. This includes current or former Bangladeshi officials, government supporters, and opposition members, among others. This would also include the immediate family members of such persons.
There is no visa restrictions occurred under this policy at this time. Accordint to US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, "the United States is committed to building a strong partnership with the Government of Bangladesh grounded in democracy and human rights. We welcome the Prime Minister’s expressed commitment to holding free and fair elections."
Moreover, the announcemet said that the United States does not support any particular political party. Restrictions under this new policy target individuals engaging in behavior that undermines the democratic election process, regardless of affiliation.
‘Restrictions under this new policy target individuals engaging in behavior that undermines the democratic election process, regardless of affiliation.’
It also assured that it is a general practice to notify individuals whose visas are revoked or cancelled.
"Given our close cooperation with the Government of Bangladesh, we informed it of this policy decision on May 3," it added.
