UN Address: Baloch Activist Demands Global Action Against Pakistan's Human Rights Abuses

During the UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva, Sammul Baloch condemned Pakistan for severe human rights violations in Balochistan. She highlighted enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, urging international intervention. Baloch criticized global institutions' inaction on Balochistan's crisis, calling for accountability and support for a sovereign Baloch state.

At the ongoing 57th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Sammul Baloch, representing the Baloch National Movement, delivered a powerful condemnation of Pakistan's human rights record in Balochistan. In her address, she detailed the widespread repression and issued a call for international attention and urgent action to address the dire situation. Baloch highlighted the rampant practice of enforced disappearances, with thousands of Baloch citizens abducted by Pakistani security forces, leaving their families with no knowledge of their fate. Citing data from the Baloch human rights organization Paank, she revealed that between January and June 2024, 269 people, including men, women, and children, were abducted, while 25 were killed extrajudicially, and 160 were tortured.

Sammul Baloch framed these enforced disappearances as part of a larger campaign to crush dissent, alleging that military and intelligence agencies are orchestrating these abductions to suppress autonomy demands. Such actions instill fear among local communities and erode trust in state institutions. She argued that the state's methods, involving military force and intimidation, are part of a systematic strategy to undermine the Baloch pursuit of self-determination. The target is not only political activists but civilians too, fostering an atmosphere of fear and oppression.

Despite overwhelming evidence of these abuses, Sammul Baloch expressed concern over the international community's lack of response, describing the world's inaction as a grave injustice. She emphasized the urgent need for accountability and urged the United Nations to hold Pakistan accountable. In conclusion, Baloch called for the UN General Assembly to pass a resolution addressing Pakistan's oppression and support efforts for a sovereign Baloch state, asserting that such steps are vital for justice and self-determination.

(With inputs from agencies.)