An Analysis of Factors of Insurgency and Current Episodes of Ethnic Conflict in Pakistan’s Balochistan

Abstract

Study Background: The Baloch ethno-nationalist rebels represent a chaotic situation in the province of Balochistan and elsewhere in the country. They pose significant security challenges to Pakistan's security forces, including joint development projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These events highlight a long-running conflict between the state of Pakistan and the Baloch ethnic minority. Previous research has primarily focussed on multiple causal factors of insurgency. Most of them are socio-economic deprivation, oppression, exploitation, alienation and poor governance. However, the role of an educated middle-class youth is a significant factor in the recent resurgence ethnic insurgency.

Aim of the Study: The purpose of this article is to answer the question of what explains the recent resurgence of ethnic Baluch insurgent mobilization.

Methodology: Using qualitative content analysis technique (CAT), the study investigated factors of insurgency and current episodes of ethnic conflict in Pakistan’s Balochistan.

Findings & Conclusion: The study found that state’s monopoly on resource exploitation, indiscriminate use of force prompted an organization of urban middle class youth that changed scope and intensity of insurgent mobilization. An Active strategy that engages Baloch youth on various platform like social media and political representation can be helpful to making path for issue mitigation.