In the most recent urgent action letter, the Thompson Rivers University Students’ Union called on Pakistan Chief Minister Secretariat, Sohail Afridi, to immediately reveal the fate and whereabouts of five Baloch activists who were reportedly subjected to enforced disappearance and ensure their rights and safety are protected.
“I think it is important to speak up when people are facing injustice. Writing a letter may seem like a small action, but it is one way we can show that these situations are not being ignored,” said Sydney Mattis, Equity Committee Member at Large.
According to Amnesty International, Mahrang Baloch, Bebarg Zehri, Beebow Baloch, Shah Jee Sibghat Ullah, and Gulzadi Baloch were reportedly detained by Pakistani authorities and subsequently disappeared. Their families and communities have been left without information regarding their whereabouts, wellbeing, or legal status.
This case reflects broader concerns regarding enforced disappearances and restrictions on civic participation in Balochistan. Human rights defenders, journalists, and activists have repeatedly raised concerns about individuals being targeted for peacefully expressing opinions, documenting human rights concerns, or advocating on behalf of their communities. International human rights standards require authorities to disclose the whereabouts of detainees and ensure access to legal protections and family contact.
“What concerns me most about this case is that families are being left without answers. No one should disappear for peacefully advocating for their community or speaking about issues that affect them,” said Mattis.
We urge Pakistani authorities to immediately reveal the fate and whereabouts of these activists, ensure they are protected from torture and other ill-treatment, and uphold their rights under international human rights law.
We await a response from the Chief Minister Secretariat on this urgent matter.
For More Information
The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows the Union to take action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator below.