New Delhi: A social media campaign has launched a global petition urging governments around the world to formally recognise the self-declared Republic of Balochistan and engage with its representatives through peaceful diplomatic channels.

The petition, shared in an X post under the hashtag #IStandWithRepublicOfBalochistan, calls on governments to recognise Balochistan as a sovereign state, establish diplomatic relations with its representatives, advocate for human rights protections, raise the humanitarian situation at international forums including the United Nations Security Council, and permit the establishment of Baloch diplomatic missions abroad.

The document alleges that Balochistan has remained under Pakistani control since 1948 and claims that the Baloch people have faced human rights abuses, enforced disappearances, displacement and political repression. It further argues that the region’s natural resources have not benefited the indigenous population and appeals for international support through peaceful diplomacy.

The petition also requests governments to consider providing defence assistance to the proposed republic and to support what it describes as the Baloch people’s aspirations for independence and political representation. It concludes by urging democratic nations to take diplomatic steps in support of human rights, regional stability and a peaceful resolution of the long-running dispute.

Pakistan has consistently rejected calls for Baloch independence, maintaining that Balochistan is an integral part of the country and describing separatist movements as unlawful.