The legacy of the July Revolution 2024: Rebuilding Bangladesh
The July Revolution was not just an uprising—it was a demand for dignity, democracy, and change. This international conference brings together diverse voices to reflect on its significance and envision the path forward
The first International Conference on the July Revolution, taking place on 27 July 2025, marks the first anniversary of one of the most significant events in Bangladesh's recent history. It provides a platform for reflection and dialogue on the revolution's enduring legacy and its transformative influence on Bangladesh's democratic and socio-economic trajectory.
Jointly hosted by leading academic institutions and organisations, including the University of Dhaka, Research and Integrated Thought (RIT), University of Regina, Kent State University, Jagannath University, and Nanyang Technological University, the conference brings together scholars, policymakers, civil society leaders, and students from around the world. Its goal is to deepen our understanding of the revolution's causes, impact, and global resonance, while fostering meaningful engagement on the future of governance, justice, and democratic reform in Bangladesh.
Understanding the July Revolution
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The revolution emerged as a powerful response to widespread discontent with the Awami League's 15-year rule. Persistent corruption, electoral manipulation, state-sponsored violence, and the erosion of democratic institutions fuelled public outrage. The tipping point came on 5 August 2024, when a student-led protest movement triggered a national uprising. The regime's brutal crackdown led to over 1,500 deaths and thousands of injuries, but it also ignited a collective demand for change.
This movement marked a historic break from a culture of fear and impunity, opening up space for new conversations about political reform, judicial independence, and citizens' rights. It was not only a political shift but a social awakening that continues to reshape Bangladesh's path forward.
What the conference seeks to achieve
The ICJR-I 2025 serves as a vital space to explore the revolution's legacy and examine the complex processes of democratic transition and reform. Out of over 400 paper submissions from around the world, 60 have been selected after careful peer review. These will be presented by academics, activists, student leaders, legal experts, and policymakers, offering diverse perspectives grounded in lived experience, scholarship, and policy insight.
Discussions at the conference will explore three key periods of the revolution: the lead-up to the uprising, the revolution itself, and the ongoing aftermath.
In the pre-revolution phase, participants will examine the systemic political repression, media censorship, digital surveillance, and economic inequality that triggered public mobilisation. Under the Digital Security Act and a tightly controlled media landscape, dissenting voices were silenced—yet grassroots organisers and online platforms created new ways to resist and raise awareness.
During the revolution, student movements and youth activism played a defining role. Creative forms of protest—from graffiti to digital storytelling—brought visibility to the struggle and inspired mass participation. The energy and leadership of Gen Z, both within Bangladesh and among the diaspora, became central to the revolution's success.
In the post-revolution context, attention shifts to institutional rebuilding, mental health support for victims, and the need for truth, reconciliation, and justice. Sessions will address how judicial institutions, law enforcement, and electoral bodies must be reformed to restore public trust. The psychological scars of those affected by state violence will also be a central focus, with conversations on how to design locally grounded rehabilitation and support systems. Calls for a Truth and Reconciliation Commission are also being explored as a way to address the past and build a more just future.
A global conversation with renowned voices
The conference features a distinguished line-up of keynote speakers who bring a wealth of global and local expertise. Dr Md Saidul Islam, an expert on sustainability and social change; Dr Mahmudur Rahman, journalist and critic of the former regime; Dr Amr Abdalla, an authority on peacebuilding and transitional justice; and Jon Danilowicz, a retired American diplomat with extensive experience in South Asia. Also joining are Doly Begum, member of provincial Parliament in Ontario, and Dr Usaama al-Azami, a scholar of Islamic political thought.
Art, expression and community memory
The conference will feature a July Exhibition and a stage production inspired by the revolution, both led by cultural organisations. These events will showcase artworks, posters, and dramatic performances that reflect the emotional and political depth of the movement. Creative expression played a powerful role in the revolution, and these sessions will continue that spirit of collective storytelling and cultural resistance.
Towards a lasting legacy
Selected papers, keynote addresses, and invited contributions will be published and widely distributed. Conference proceedings will be submitted to academic journals and made available to researchers, policymakers, and human rights advocates. These resources will serve as a foundation for ongoing engagement and academic inquiry.
The 1st International Conference on the July Revolution is not only a forum for remembrance but a catalyst for future action. It offers a space to honour those who stood for justice and to ensure their sacrifices guide the shaping of a more democratic, inclusive, and equitable Bangladesh.
The Convenors' message
The July Revolution of 2024 marks a defining chapter in Bangladesh's democratic journey—a powerful testament to the unwavering spirit of its youth and citizens in their pursuit of justice, dignity, and participatory governance. Emerging from the shadows of decades of authoritarian rule, this historic uprising has sparked essential debates on political accountability, judicial reform, and social transformation—not only in Bangladesh but in parallel struggles around the world.
In that spirit, we proudly present the 1st International Conference on the July Revolution (ICJR-I, 2025). Organised in collaboration with universities and civil society groups, this conference brings together distinguished scholars, policymakers, activists, and students to explore the revolution's lessons and its continuing relevance.
We are deeply grateful to all speakers, presenters, and participants whose ideas and commitment have made this gathering possible. Our sincere thanks also goes to The Business Standard for publishing this special supplement and helping amplify the voices and visions foregrounded through this event.
We invite readers to explore these reflections, engage with the insights shared, and become part of the journey inspired by the July Revolution—a movement committed to democracy, human rights, and social justice for generations to come.
Out of over 400 paper submissions from around the world, 60 have been selected after careful peer review. These will be presented by academics, activists, student leaders, legal experts, and policymakers, offering diverse perspectives grounded in lived experience, scholarship, and policy insight.
