1. Introduction:

The development of human civilization has never witnessed a static state system; rather, it changes according to the demands of time. At critical junctures in history, certain documents, charters, or treaties have inaugurated new eras in governance. The Charter of Medina (622 CE), the Magna Carta (1215 CE), and the July Charter (2024 CE) are considered groundbreaking milestones in this evolution of statehood. When examined together, they reveal that justice, accountability, and people’s sovereignty have been renewed repeatedly throughout human history.

2. The Charter of Medina — Foundation of a Pluralistic State:

In 622 CE, after the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated to Medina, he drafted a treaty with various tribes and religious communities, known in history as the “Charter of Medina.”

A pluralistic political structure was formed that included Muslims, Jews, and other tribes.

Every community enjoyed freedom in practicing its own religion.

All groups were held equally responsible for upholding law and peace.

As head of state, the Prophet (pbuh) was the supreme judge and ruler, but his leadership was validated through the consent of the people.

Historians have described it as the first written constitution, where the principles of justice, coexistence, and protection of human rights were clearly embodied.

3. Magna Carta — Limiting Monarchy and Planting the Seeds of Democracy:

In 1215, King John of England was forced by his barons to sign a charter, known as the “Magna Carta” or the “Great Charter.”

It curtailed the absolute power of the king, establishing that the monarch was not above the law.

It laid the foundation for taxation and state decisions to require the consent of the people (later embodied in Parliament).

Common people gained the right to fair justice.

The Magna Carta is regarded as the basis of modern constitutional government, democracy, and the Rule of Law. It proved that state power is illegitimate without the consent of the people.

4. The July Charter — A Pledge Written in the People’s Blood:

In July 2024, the people of Bangladesh staged an unprecedented mass uprising. With the sacrifice of hundreds of lives, the leadership of students and youth, and the participation of ordinary citizens, a new political consciousness was born.

Its primary goal was the end of autocracy, dynastic rule, and inequality.

Democracy, justice, and accountability were inscribed with the blood of the martyrs.

Political parties were compelled to acknowledge the will of the people, symbolizing a new foundation for the Bangladeshi state system.

Although it has not yet been published as a formal institutional document, the “July Charter” forged through people’s struggle has emerged as the roadmap for the future of Bangladesh’s politics and governance.

5. Historical Continuity:

Charter of Medina: The first written model of a pluralistic and justice-based state.

Magna Carta: Limited monarchical power and sowed the seeds of democratic governance.

July Charter: A modern pledge of freedom, justice, and sovereignty inscribed in the blood of the people of Bangladesh.

Together, these events teach us that the people are the ultimate source of state power, and that no rule can endure without justice.

6. Conclusion:

The Charter of Medina, the Magna Carta, and the July Charter—though born in different eras and lands—are bound by a common thread. Each is a landmark in securing people’s rights, establishing accountability, and placing limits on state authority. Therefore, they are not merely documents but enduring pledges of human liberation. For this reason, and given the political context, the July Charter should not be compared to a constitution, but rather understood as part of this historical continuum.