Photo : Collected
The United States has said elections around the world are a testament to the importance of civic participation and the value of every vote.
"Elections are an essential expression of the will of the people. The U.S. electoral process is a testament to democracy in action," said Chargé d'Affaires Megan Bouldin while speaking at the Presidential Election Watch Party at the American Center in Dhaka on Wednesday.
By engaging Bangladeshi youth in this experience, she said, they are fostering a better understanding of democracy and the importance of civic engagement.
"We hope this event inspires future leaders in Bangladesh to recognize the power of their voices in shaping their own democratic processes," said the US diplomat.
The event offered a unique opportunity for Bangladeshi youth and participants to experience the US electoral process firsthand.
The event provided a platform for youth leaders, journalists, and civil society members to witness and engage in discussions on the US Presidential election, its significance, and the impact of youth engagement on democracy.
The event featured interactive activities, such as a mock election where attendees voted for their favorite American sweets, two panel discussions, and two speakers from the United States, and one Bangladeshi reporter Morshed Hassib from Channel 24.
Participants also watched live updates from the United States as election results began to unfold, offering them a front-row seat to this critical event.
Sharing the excitement of their electoral process and shared democratic values of the United States and Bangladesh with the young leaders, she said, "Let me say it again - your voice matters."
In both the United States and Bangladesh, the US diplomat said the future is in the hands of young leaders.
Bouldin said democracy is about having a voice and being able to make choices about their future. "When we vote, we are making decisions about things that affect us all: education, climate change, and social justice, just name a few."
She said democracy is not perfect and they always strive to be better, and they can always improve.
"The U.S. election process is dynamic, and like every democracy, we also encounter challenges. Challenges like disinformation and misinformation," Bouldin said.
"And in a democracy, every voter will experience joy and disappointment - we can imagine the thrill when the candidate you voted for wins and the worry when the candidate you supported loses. But here's the crucial point, democracy is about more than just voting every few years," she mentioned.
This watch party is part of the US Embassy's efforts to strengthen cross-cultural ties and promote democratic values.
Messenger/JRTarek
