London: An event held on 20 April at the University of West London brought renewed international attention to alleged human rights violations in Pakistan and Iran, with speakers urging greater global intervention.
The programme, organised in collaboration with the International Voice for Baloch Missing Persons and the United Nations Academic Impact, drew participation from students, academics and faculty members, alongside representatives of Baloch, Pashtun, Al-Awazi and Kurdish communities.
Speakers highlighted what they described as grave abuses in Balochistan, including enforced disappearances, prolonged detention of civilians and a so-called “kill and dump” policy. They argued that such practices violate fundamental human rights and breach international legal standards.
Participants called on global human rights organisations and the United Nations to take a more active role in addressing the situation, warning that continued silence risks prolonging the suffering of affected communities.
The event also sought to frame the issue of missing persons in Balochistan through academic research and verifiable data, rather than solely as a political narrative.
Proceedings opened with a testimonial video featuring families of missing individuals, who appealed for the safe return of their loved ones while recounting their personal experiences.
Organisers said the gathering underscored the role of academic institutions, civil society and international platforms in raising awareness and advocating accountability on human rights issues.
