In a press conference held at the Geneva Press Club, the Chairman of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), Dr. Naseem Baloch, addressed the journalists and international community, shedding light on the dire challenges faced by the Baloch nation and requesting global intervention in Balochistan.
In a plea, Dr. Naseem Baloch urgently requested the United Nations and the broader international community to champion the cause of the Baloch nation. He sought an end to the systematic injustices and violations faced by the Baloch nation, emphasizing that the world’s attention is vital for the plea of freedom and justice to be heard and acted upon globally.
Balochistan’s rich cultural heritage, marked by resilience and a longstanding struggle for self-determination, was highlighted by Dr. Baloch. He elaborated on the deep roots of the Baloch nation, dating back millennia, maintaining a distinct identity, language, and way of life despite historical upheavals, including resistance against external domination during the British colonization era.
The Chairman outlined the historical context, stating, “In 1947, Balochistan declared independence but was occupied by Pakistan in 1948,” emphasizing the Baloch nation’s continuous resistance against this illegal invasion. He brought attention to severe human rights violations faced by the Baloch nation, including enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, torture, and arbitrary arrests at the hands of Pakistani state agencies, resulting in an atmosphere of fear and oppression in their homeland.
Dr. Naseem Baloch further expressed grave concerns over alarming instances of enforced disappearances and mass graves in Balochistan, highlighting the tragic reality faced by the Baloch nation. He condemned the Counter-Terrorism Department’s (CTD) involvement in fake encounters, perpetuating a cycle of injustice and violence against innocent Baloch civilians.
The Chairman drew attention to the media blackout in Balochistan, underscoring its gravity. He pointed out that the region, heavily controlled by the Pakistan Army, lacks an independent media presence, constraining journalists from reporting on ground realities. The denial of unbiased information to the people of Balochistan, according to Dr. Baloch, makes international intervention imperative to address the extent of human rights violations.
The Chairman concluded the press conference with a call for collective action against Pakistan and in favor of Balochistan, expressing hope that their plea would resonate across borders, prompting a just and humane response.
As an integral segment of BNM’s three-day advocacy initiative to spotlight the Balochistan issue during the 55th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, this press conference unfolded.
Kicking off on the evening of March 11, 2024, the campaign commenced with BNM’s 4th Internationl Conference on Balochistan at the Geneva Press Club. Distinguished personalities conveyed their perspectives on Balochistan, extending their sympathy and unwavering support for the Baloch nation.
The momentum of the campaign will persist into the subsequent phase with a series of events hosted at Broken Chair over the next two
days.