Baloch National Movement Protests in Germany Against Human Rights Violations in Balochistan

On June 27, the German chapter of the Baloch National Movement (BNM) held a protest in Cologne, Germany. The protest aimed to raise awareness about human rights violations in Balochistan, Pakistan. It coincided with the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture and the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Protestors displayed banners, held placards, and showed images of victims of enforced disappearances. They condemned the Pakistani government’s actions against the Baloch community. Key speakers included BNM Germany Chapter President Shar Hasan, Vice President Safia Manzoor, Asif Baloch, Qasim Husain, Ahmed Baloch, Iman Baloch, Balach, and human rights activist Hudahair Baloch. They emphasized the urgent need for international action to address the situation in Balochistan.

The BNM called for an end to military operations in Balochistan, which have led to enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and systematic torture. They urged advocacy groups to continue raising awareness and pushing for action to support the rights of the Baloch people.

Young activists highlighted the severe impact of torture and drug abuse on Balochistan’s youth. They stressed the importance of providing employment opportunities to prevent young people from falling into drug trafficking or substance abuse.

The BNM also called for an independent investigation into enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. A protestor referenced the Baloch long march of last year, noting that Pakistani authorities used excessive force against peaceful protestors, including tear gas and water cannons. Many protestors, including women, were beaten and arrested.

Over the last two decades, thousands of social activists, students, and political activists from Balochistan have been forcibly disappeared and tortured in Pakistani jails.