The Baloch National Movement (BNM) has launched an international campaign to raise awareness about the ongoing crackdown in Balochistan, garnering global attention and concern from international leaders. As part of this effort, BNM has reached out to ministers and members of parliament in Ireland and the European Parliament, highlighting the illegal detention of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders, attacks on peaceful protesters, and incidents of police firing that have resulted in injuries and deaths.
The campaign also emphasized that Pakistan’s trade benefits under the GSP+ scheme are at risk due to its failure to uphold international human rights standards, a concern echoed by various global institutions.
BNM’s Presence at the UN Human Rights Commission Session
During the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Commission, BNM, under the leadership of Chairman Dr. Naseem Baloch, ensured its presence and active participation. The BNM delegation took part in various UN programs and organized the Sixth Balochistan International Conference. BNM representatives in Geneva also engaged in multiple diplomatic and advocacy initiatives concerning Balochistan.
Irish Government Expresses Concern Over Balochistan
Ireland’s Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris, acknowledged BNM’s concerns regarding the situation in Balochistan. His office confirmed that the Irish Embassy in Islamabad is aware of the arrests of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other civil society activists. Ireland is closely monitoring the situation and remains in communication with the European Union and other international partners to discuss the issue.
The Irish government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting human rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful protest, and political participation. It also emphasized that human rights are a key topic in EU-Pakistan discussions, referencing concerns raised in the 14th EU-Pakistan Joint Commission meeting in 2024. Additionally, Ireland reiterated that Pakistan’s trade benefits under the GSP+ scheme depend on its compliance with international human rights standards and assured continued monitoring of the situation in Balochistan.
European Lawmakers Raise Alarm Over Human Rights Violations
BNM also received a response from Barry Andrews, a member of the European Parliament, who expressed deep concern over the situation in Balochistan and the illegal detention of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and others. Andrews cited his social media posts condemning these arrests and calling for their immediate release. He also recalled his meeting with Sammi Deen Baloch at last year’s Front Line Defenders Award ceremony in Ireland and pledged to continue pressuring Pakistani authorities to respect human rights.
Similarly, the office of European Parliament member Cynthia Ní Mhurchú condemned the unlawful detentions and human rights abuses in Balochistan. Ní Mhurchú reiterated her commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, promising to discuss the issue with her colleagues.
Irish MP Calls for Stronger Stance on Balochistan
Irish Member of Parliament Richard Boyd Barrett also condemned Pakistan’s repression of the Baloch people. His office confirmed that he would urge the Irish government to adopt a firm stance demanding the release of Dr. Mahrang Baloch. Additionally, a parliamentary question on the issue has been submitted to Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, with further updates expected once a response is received.
BNM’s Continued International Advocacy Efforts
BNM’s Foreign Affairs Department reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness about the human rights crisis in Balochistan through international outreach. The organization has contacted members of the European and US parliaments, human rights organizations, the United Nations, and media outlets to call for urgent action against these severe violations.
BNM has announced that it will soon provide updates on responses from the United Nations Human Rights Commission, European Parliament members from other countries, British, German, and Dutch MPs, as well as US senators regarding the situation in Balochistan.