Exposing Injustices: BASC Debuts with Focus on Baloch Human Rights Violations

The Baloch Advocacy and Studies Centre (BASC), in collaboration with the SOAS Iranian Society, organized a pivotal seminar at the Djam Lecture Theatre, SOAS, University of London, focusing on grave human rights abuses against the Baloch populace in Iran and Pakistan. Held on July 30, this inaugural public event offered insights into BASC's forthcoming Human Rights Reports, slated for release in August 2025.

The seminar's first session delved into state violence in Iranian Balochistan, with key discussions on extrajudicial killings disproportionately affecting women and children. Relatives of abuse victims shared testimonies, while Fariba Baloch, BASC's President, outlined the dire human rights conditions. Abdullah Aref, BASC's Deputy General Secretary, revealed statistics on 2024 executions, underscoring patterns of state violence. Mai Sato, UN Special Rapporteur on Iran's human rights, expressed concerns and pledged to raise the issue at the UN Human Rights Council.

The second session focused on Balochistan, Pakistan, beginning with a historical account of human rights challenges by BASC Vice President Hassan Hamdam. Khurshid Ahmed, Director of Research, presented on enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in 2024, highlighting targeted attacks on students and laborers by Pakistani state forces. Keynote speaker Sabiha Baloch from the Baloch Yakjehti Committee emphasized the urgent need for international intervention. Attendees included diplomats, scholars, media, and human rights advocates, who united in solidarity for justice and Baloch rights advocacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)