Renowned American human rights lawyer and researcher Reed Brody, addressing the 7th Balochistan International Conference, said: “The people of Balochistan are not alone. The struggle for truth and accountability can be long, but it is never hopeless. We must insist on international scrutiny.”
At the Geneva Press Club, the Baloch National Movement (BNM) organised the “7th Balochistan International Conference” on the sidelines of the 60th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council. Speaking alongside other participants, the prominent human rights advocate said:
“Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with survivors of some of the world’s most brutal regimes—Augusto Pinochet of Chile, Jean-Claude Duvalier of Haiti, and Hissène Habré of Chad. These were powerful men who believed they could rule through terror, silence dissent through fear, and escape accountability.
But history caught up with them—not because of governments, but because survivors refused to be silent. Their courage brought justice, not only for themselves but for future generations. That same courage is alive today in Balochistan.”
He said: “We must call for independent investigations into enforced disappearances, unlawful killings, and the targeting of women activists. The international community must not look away while basic rights—like the right to speak, to protest, and to mourn—are denied. I urge the Pakistani authorities to immediately release those detained for peaceful protest, restore internet access in affected regions, and end the unlawful use of force.”
Addressing the international community, he urged: “Support the voices of victims, demand accountability, and do not let geopolitics blind us to serious abuses.”
Speaking to survivors in Balochistan, Reed Brody said: “Your courage matters. History shows that truth can be delayed, but it cannot be buried.”