A forum in Pakistan has expressed solidarity with women’s resistance efforts in Balochistan, endorsing their calls for justice and the safe return of Baloch civilians who have disappeared. The Khawateen Mahaz-e-Amal (Women’s Action Forum – WAF) emphasized the need for the release and fair treatment of Baloch women and others detained by Pakistani authorities under questionable circumstances.
The WAF acknowledged the bravery of Baloch activists who have undertaken long marches and peaceful protests despite facing harsh weather conditions and state violence. The forum condemned Pakistan’s use of “collective punishment” against families of enforced disappearance victims, aligning its demands with various human rights organizations advocating for justice.
In line with other rights groups, the WAF urged the establishment of an autonomous State Commission on Involuntary Enforced Disappearances reporting to the Pakistani Parliament. It also called for the elimination of the current ineffective Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances and pushed for Pakistan to ratify the UN Convention for the Protection of all Persons from Enforced Disappearances.
Furthermore, the forum demanded that victims of enforced disappearances be presented before judges to ensure their fundamental rights to justice and due process. It reiterated its commitment to supporting Baloch women activists and vowed to continue advocating for the return of all disappeared individuals until they are reunited with their families.
