Independence Day of USA & its relevance with Bangladesh’s journey towards rebuilding Democracy, Due Process of Law & Human Rights

Dr. Aziz Ahmed  Bhuiyan : Each year on July 4, the United States commemorates Independence Day, marking the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776—a historic moment when the American colonies proclaimed their right to self-governance, liberty, and justice. More than a celebration of freedom, this day serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring values that define democratic nations: the rule of law, due process, and the universal protection of human rights.

As the United States of America celebrates its Independence Day on July 4, the world is reminded of a pivotal moment in history the declaration of a people’s right to govern themselves, to reject tyranny, and to build a society based on liberty, justice, and the rule of law.

This moment is not just American history—it is a universal legacy of the struggle forfreedom,dignity,anddemocraticgovernance.ForBangladesh,especiallyinthe post-2024contextafterthefallofautocraticruleandarenewednational movement led by students and civil society, the American story holds timely and powerful lessons.

For a country like Bangladesh, which emerged through its own struggle for independence in 1971 and is currently engaged in efforts to rebuild democratic institutions, strengthen the judiciary, and uphold civil liberties, the spirit of July 4 offers meaningful lessons and inspiration.

In the wake of the fall of the autocratic regime in 2024 and the historic student-led mass revolution, Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. The courage and unity shown by the youth especially students has reignited the dream of a democratic, just, and rights-based society. As we look ahead to rebuild our nation, we must not only honor our martyrs and heroes but also draw lessons from the world’s enduring democracies most notably, the United States of America.

The Power of the People: The Right to Vote and Franchise

America’s journey began with the recognition of the people’s right to choose their leaders. That right, enshrined in their Constitution and protected by independent institutions, ensures that no power remains unchecked.

Bangladesh’s future lies in guaranteeing that every citizen, regardless of class or background, can freely exercise the right to vote, without fear, interference, or manipulation. Democracy without the franchise is an illusion. Rebuilding public trust in free, fair, and transparent elections must be the cornerstone of our democratic rebirth.

Democracy as a Living System

The American Revolution taught that democracy is not given—it is earned, often through sacrifice and sustained civic engagement. Similarly, Bangladesh must now focus not just on removing authoritarian figures but on building enduring democratic institutions—parliaments that are accountable, elections that are free and fair, and leaders who serve, not rule.

Democracy and Sovereignty : A Shared Aspiration

Just as the American colonies resisted colonial domination to assert their right to self-determination, Bangladesh was born from a people’s movement rooted in democratic values, linguistic identity, and social justice. However, democracy is not merely won through independence it must be preserved, nurtured, and practiced through the institutions of governance and law.

America’s post-independence journey marked by constitutional debates, institutional checks and balances, and an ever-evolving commitment to freedom— reminds us that democracy is a continuous process, not a one-time achievement. Bangladesh, in its current context, can draw strength from this vision as it strives to make its democracy more inclusive, participatory, and resilient.

Due Process of Law: Ending Arbitrary Power

One of America’s core contributions to modern governance is the idea of due process of law—that no person may be deprived of liberty or life without fair legal proceedings. In Bangladesh, restoring and protecting due process means:

• Ensuring independent and impartial courts
• Preventing political use of the judiciary
• Providing legal aid and access to justice for all

This principle is essential for ending the culture of impunity and re-establishing public trust in the legal system.

Guaranteeing and Ensuring Human Rights

The U.S. Declaration of Independence proclaimed that “all men are created equal”, and endowed with unalienable rights—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. For Bangladesh, this means ensuring:

• Freedom of speech and press
• Protection against torture and arbitrary arrest
• Respect for religious and minority rights
• Equal treatment for women and marginalized communities

A true democracy cannot flourish while rights are repressed or selectively enforced.

Independent Judiciary: Guardian of Democracy

The judiciary must serve as the ultimate defender of constitutional values. In the U.S., the Supreme Court has often been a bulwark against executive overreach and a defender of civil rights.

For Bangladesh,judicial independence is not a luxuryit is a necessity.Judges must be free to rule without fear or favor. This requires structural reforms, including the separation of powers, protection of judges’ tenure, and the depoliticization of judicial appointments.

Relevance for Bangladesh’s Future

As Bangladesh navigates complex challenges ranging from economic development and political polarization to digital surveillance and social justice—it must recommit to the founding principles of its own liberation war: democracy, justice, equality, and dignity.

The American experience teaches us that:

• Strong institutions protect rights better than strong
• Checks and balances prevent the abuse of
• Civic engagement and an informed citizenry are essential to holding power accountable.

On this Independence Day, Bangladeshis can find both solidarity and lessons in America’s ongoing democratic journey. The road to liberty is never easy—but it is always worth pursuing.

Rebirth Through Principles

July 4 is not just a celebration of American freedom—it is a reminder to the world that sustainable progress is only possible through democracy, justice, and human dignity. For Bangladesh in 2025, these ideals are not foreign—they are embedded in the very spirit of our own liberation struggle of 1971, and reawakened by the people’s revolution of 2024.

The Spirit of 2024 Meets the Vision of 1776

The student revolution of 2024 echoes the spirit of resistance and rebirth that gave birth to the United States in 1776. Both movements were driven by a yearning for freedom, dignity, and people’s power.

As we rebuild our republic, let us commit to the principles that have stood the test of time i.e. Democracy, Rule of Law, Human Rights, Independent Judiciary & People’s Sovereignty.

Author Dr. Aziz Ahmed  Bhuiyan, Registrar General (Senior District & Sessions Judge) Bangladesh Supreme Court. E-mail: rg@supremecourt.gov.bdazizabrar2004@yahoo.co.uk