For decades, the world has turned a blind eye to the human rights abuses in Balochistan. Today, however, the cries of Baloch activists and ordinary citizens are being heard—across the globe, not just within Pakistan’s borders. Political activists are being arrested, protesters are being met with violence, and voices calling for justice are disappearing without a trace. The question that now arises is: Will the international community finally take a stand, or will Balochistan’s agony remain a forgotten struggle?
In recent developments, the Baloch National Movement (BNM) has successfully taken Balochistan’s plight to the world stage. On April 6, 2025, BNM revealed that lawmakers from Ireland and the United Kingdom had raised formal questions in their parliaments regarding the escalating human rights violations in Balochistan. These inquiries—centered on the arbitrary arrests of activists, violent repression of peaceful protests, and enforced disappearances—have thrust Pakistan’s treatment of the Baloch people into the spotlight like never before.
For years, the issue was pushed aside, often dismissed as a “local” matter. But thanks to the tireless advocacy of organizations like the BNM, a glimmer of hope has emerged: international accountability.
The Intensification of Local Protests
On the ground in Balochistan, resistance is not just growing—it is becoming unavoidable. In response to the increasing political persecution, the Balochistan National Party (BNP), alongside the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has called for widespread protests. These actions are not just symbolic—they are a declaration of defiance in the face of a brutal and oppressive regime.
Key forms of protest include blockading major highways and organizing shutter-down strikes across the region. These disruptions are designed to draw attention to the violence and repression faced by the Baloch people. The state is attempting to shut down all forms of resistance, but the people of Balochistan are resolutely pushing back, refusing to let their voices be silenced.
The BYC has been especially vocal, condemning the ongoing military operations, arbitrary arrests, and harassment of Baloch activists. A recent statement from the group declared, “The state has practically imposed fascism on Balochistan. Political voices are being suppressed, and freedom of expression has been completely stripped away.”
Gulzadi Baloch’s Disappearance: Another Voice Silenced?
The disappearance of Gulzadi Baloch, a prominent activist with the BYC, has raised alarm both locally and internationally. On April 7, 2025, it was reported that Gulzadi was abducted by Pakistani law enforcement officials from Quetta. Since then, her whereabouts have remained unknown, and her case has been added to a long list of missing Baloch activists.
The BYC was quick to condemn this illegal abduction, calling it yet another example of the state’s relentless attack on peaceful activism. “This is a clear attempt to intimidate and silence voices that dare to speak out,” the group stated on X (formerly Twitter). The hashtags #ReleaseGulzadiBaloch and #StopBalochGenocide quickly gained traction, amplifying the international call for her immediate release.
The Unyielding Defiance of Mahrang Baloch
Another significant development in the ongoing struggle for Baloch rights involves Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a leading human rights activist and member of the BYC. Mahrang has been detained for some time, but her case has drawn particular attention after it was revealed that Pakistani authorities had offered her release on conditional terms. According to her sister, Nadia Baloch, government officials proposed that Mahrang could go free—if she agreed to limit her political activities and cease organizing protests or sit-ins.
Mahrang, who is widely respected for her courage and activism, refused the deal. She remains imprisoned, and her refusal to compromise her principles has only strengthened her status as a symbol of resistance. Nadia Baloch has been vocal in denouncing the conditions placed on her sister’s release, calling it an attempt to silence one of the region’s most prominent voices for justice.
Growing Global Pressure
The advocacy efforts of the BNM have had a significant impact. Lawmakers in the UK and Ireland are not only raising questions in parliament but also pushing for greater international scrutiny of Pakistan’s actions in Balochistan. These developments represent a rare but much-needed shift in global diplomacy, where human rights violations are starting to be taken seriously, even when they occur in a conflict-ridden region like Balochistan.
This growing international pressure is a testament to the power of advocacy. Through strategic outreach and alliances with human rights organizations, BNM has succeeded in bringing attention to the increasingly dire situation in Balochistan. However, while these parliamentary questions are a step in the right direction, the real test lies in what actions follow.
International human rights bodies, as well as global powers, must hold Pakistan accountable for its treatment of the Baloch people. The situation in Balochistan is no longer just a regional issue; it has become a global human rights crisis that demands urgent attention.
The Call for Global Accountability
The international community can no longer afford to ignore the plight of the Baloch people. The brutal repression faced by activists like Gulzadi and Mahrang Baloch cannot be swept under the rug. As the protests intensify and the calls for justice grow louder, it is crucial that global actors stand in solidarity with Balochistan. This includes not just raising awareness but also pressuring Pakistan to end its systematic targeting of political activists.
The struggle for Balochistan’s autonomy and justice is far from over. But with the growing international support and the unwavering courage of Baloch activists, there is hope that the world will finally listen—and take action. The voices of Balochistan cannot be silenced any longer.
The world must pay attention. Not in hindsight, but now.
Relates stories:
Balochistan Situation Worsening: National Party Leader Criticized ‘Govt’s Indifference’
Balochistan Human Rights Group Held Awareness Campaign for Baloch Genocide Remembrance Day
Balochistan: A Region in Crisis Amidst Human Rights Violations
Enforced Disappearances in Balochistan: A Long-standing Crisis
