Pakistan may temporarily delay Balochistan’s quest for self-determination, but it can only do so at a high financial, moral, political, and reputational cost. Ultimately, Balochistan’s freedom is inevitable, and denying it is neither justified nor sustainable in the long run.
These were the views expressed by renowned human rights lawyer Peter Tatchell at the fifth Balochistan International Conference (BIC), organized by the Baloch National Movement.
Tatchell outlined a comprehensive plan for peace and self-determination in Balochistan. Speaking to Baloch leaders, activists, and international observers, he emphasized the urgent need for a clear and actionable strategy to resolve the decades-long conflict and occupation of Balochistan by Pakistan.
Highlighting the enormous challenges faced by the Baloch people, Tatchell stressed the importance of focusing on solutions rather than merely discussing the problems. “We all know the problem,” he said. “What we should be focusing on are the solutions.”
Drawing on his extensive experience supporting global freedom movements, Tatchell emphasized that Balochistan’s future lies in the hands of its people. “It is not for me or any other outsider to determine the solutions,” he said.
Tatchell also referenced the Balochistan Freedom Charter, which was first proposed by Baloch activists in Geneva. He stated that the charter offers a roadmap to reduce conflict and secure national independence for Balochistan.
He further explained that presenting a credible and comprehensive plan could increase international support for the Baloch movement. Tatchell proposed several key measures to achieve peace and self-determination in Balochistan, including an immediate ceasefire under United Nations supervision, the release of political prisoners, and an end to military operations on both sides.
He underscored the importance of opening Balochistan to journalists, aid organizations, and human rights groups, who are currently barred from entering the region. He also advocated for the return of displaced people, the restitution of their properties, and compensation for damages incurred during the conflict.
Tatchell condemned Pakistan’s policy of demographic engineering in Balochistan through the settlement of non-Baloch individuals, calling it a form of colonial manipulation.
“The central demand of the peace process is a UN-supervised referendum, which would allow the Baloch people to determine their future, including the option of independence,” Tatchell said, emphasizing that the right to self-determination is enshrined in the United Nations Charter, and Baloch leadership must assert this right.
In his address, Tatchell presented his vision of a free and independent Balochistan, rooted in the principles of social justice, equality, and democracy. Discussing the future of Balochistan, he emphasized that human rights for all citizens, including equal rights for women, must be ensured. He noted that gender inequality, particularly in a region traditionally dominated by patriarchal and tribal systems, is a significant issue.
He proposed land ownership reforms, advocating for a share in land ownership for all adult Baloch citizens, which would address the stark disparities in wealth and land distribution.
Tatchell also called for a fair redistribution of wealth and power, insisting that Balochistan’s resources should benefit the wider population, not just a small elite. He strongly supported the establishment of a secular state where all religions are treated equally under the law, without any faith being given superiority over others.
He stressed that a democratic Balochistan must respect international human rights standards, ensuring freedom of expression, the right to protest, and a free press.
In conclusion, Tatchell called for the establishment of a commission to investigate extrajudicial arrests and disappearances in Balochistan. “Such investigations would provide justice to the victims and their families,” he said.
Tatchell urged Baloch leaders to present their case to the international community with a clear and actionable plan.
Drawing comparisons between the Baloch struggle and other historical movements, he cited Vietnam’s success in challenging U.S. occupation, highlighting that a small, determined population can defeat a powerful adversary. “David can defeat Goliath,” he said.
He concluded by affirming that, like all peoples, the Baloch have the right to self-determination. Tatchell ended on a resolute note, stating that while Pakistan may continue to delay Balochistan’s independence, it will come at a high price. “The world is watching, and Balochistan’s freedom cannot be permanently denied.”