The July Declaration, released Tuesday on the anniversary of the fall of Hasina’s autocratic rule in 2024, laid out a comprehensive roadmap for the future of Bangladesh, calling for the reinstatement of democratic values, justice, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
The declaration emphasises the need to address the historic injustices that have plagued the country under the previous government, particularly the last 16 years of authoritarian rule.
The key points of the Declaration are as follows:
Reinstatement of people’s rights: The Declaration calls for the restoration of the rights of the people of Bangladesh, stressing the need for a democratic state system that upholds freedom and equality.
Accountability for past crimes: One of the central tenets of the Declaration is the demand for the trials of those responsible for crimes, violence, and the looting of state property during the oppressive rule of the previous government. The Declaration condemns the corruption and abuses that have taken place under the leadership of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Recognition of martyrs: The Declaration seeks to honour the martyrs of the July 2024 uprising, calling for their recognition as national heroes, acknowledging their sacrifice for the cause of democracy.
Legal protection for protestors: A crucial demand of the Declaration is the provision of legal protection for students and others who participated in the movement, ensuring that they are not persecuted for standing up against the oppressive regime.
Building a just society: The Declaration advocates for the creation of a society based on the rule of law, human rights, and moral values, free from corruption, exploitation, and authoritarian control.
Sustainable development: The Declaration emphasises the importance of sustainable development, focusing on strategies that protect future generations and the environment, ensuring that the country’s growth is both inclusive and climate-resilient.
Constitutional reform: The Declaration calls for the constitutional recognition of the mass uprising of 2024 and the inclusion of the July Declaration in the reformed Constitution, securing the democratic aspirations of the people in the country’s legal framework.
The July Declaration represents the voice of millions of Bangladeshis who stood up for their rights in the face of oppression. It marks a pivotal moment in the country’s struggle for democracy, justice, and accountability. Click here for detail of the declaration: