Baloch Activists Demand Global Action Over 9,000 Disappearances

The Human Rights Council of Balochistan and other activist groups marked the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances by demanding global action against the Government of Pakistan. The organizations accused Pakistani military and intelligence services of systemic forced disappearances and arbitrary detentions across the region.

The Human Rights Council of Balochistan reported documenting 9,130 cases of enforced disappearances between January 2016 and July 2026. The Baloch Students Organisation (BSO)-Azad provided more recent data, claiming over 800 civilians—including students, teachers, doctors, and political activists—disappeared in the first half of 2026 alone. BSO-Azad specifically noted the disappearance of senior members, such as former chairman Zahid Baloch, and alleged that detainees are held at undisclosed sites where they face abuse or death.

Sabiha Baloch, leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, characterized these disappearances as a daily reality for the Baloch people. Along with the Baloch Voice for Justice, these groups urged the United Nations and the international community to launch an independent investigation to hold Pakistani authorities accountable and secure the release of the missing.