Charter 08 is a manifesto for political reform in China, released in December 2008. It calls for the establishment of a democratic political system, protection of human rights, and the rule of law. The document was signed by over 300 Chinese intellectuals and activists, advocating for freedom of expression and assembly. The charter was inspired by Charter 77, a similar document from Czechoslovakia. Its release led to significant government backlash, with many signatories facing harassment or imprisonment. Despite this, Charter 08 remains a symbol of the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in China.