SUMMARY of the Article “Balochistan’s Riches,” Dawn, September 7th, 2024

The article highlights the ongoing protests by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), which are demanding fundamental rights for the people of Balochistan amid the government’s focus on the province’s rich mineral resources. In December 2022, the government passed the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Act (FIPPA) to attract foreign investment, particularly for projects like the Reko Diq mining initiative in Balochistan. However, the state’s failure to address the grievances of the local population creates a stark contradiction in policy. Balochistan, rich in minerals like copper, lithium, and gold, remains one of Pakistan’s poorest regions, with its resources often processed abroad, benefiting other nations. The article emphasizes that meaningful engagement with the local population, especially those protesting for justice, is essential for any successful mining operation. The long-standing issue of enforced disappearances and the lack of fundamental rights must be addressed before foreign investment can be effectively pursued. The federal government’s strategy of using force and relying on traditional power brokers » Read More…