Dr Marhang Baloch, a prominent activist and leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee in Pakistan, delivered a compelling account of the distressing situation in Balochistan in an exclusive podcast interview with Erem Kansoy for Medya News, calling for urgent international support against what she called the systematic genocide faced by the Baloch people.
Defining herself as a victim of state atrocities, Dr Marhang Baloch delineated the core demands of the Baloch movement, stressing the imperative recognition of Balochistan’s identity, an immediate end to the decades-long genocide, and a halt to the relentless exploitation of Baloch resources. The interview underscored the long march ongoing for over 40 days organised by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee in response to the extrajudicial killings of four Baloch youths.
The activist vehemently denounced the state-sponsored violence, disappearances, and economic exploitation by Pakistani forces in Balochistan. She pointedly accused the global community, especially Europe and the European Union (EU), of maintaining a conspicuous silence on the matter, despite their professed commitment to human rights and democracy. She urgently called on the EU to establish a fact-finding committee to investigate the ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan and compel Pakistan to desist from its oppressive actions.
“What we are saying, is that a state is involved in the systemic genocide, and also has been supported by all the world. Human rights are just slogans. Our people are butchered, are people are mutilated. But none of them speak for us,” Dr Baloch said.
In expressions of gratitude, Dr. Baloch acknowledged the recent declaration of solidarity by the Kurdish women’s movement with Baloch women. She emphasised the critical importance of international unity.
Addressing the question of support from the European community and the Kurdish people, Dr Baloch implored individuals to notify human rights organisations, correspond with Pakistan, and pressure the authorities into signing an enforced disappearances bill.
In a poignant message to the world, Dr Marhang Baloch underscored the significance of global solidarity among oppressed nations. She urged the international community to unite against the divisive tactics employed by global powers, calling on everyone to amplify their voices in support of oppressed people globally.
As the Baloch people persevere in their quest for justice, this podcast interview serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for international attention and action to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Balochistan.