Geneva

Mary Lawlor, a United Nations expert on human rights defenders, has expressed concern over reports of harassment and attempts to criminalise women’s rights activist Dr Sabiha Baloch and her family.

In a statement, Lawlor indicated that she had also received information about continued pressure on the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, suggesting that these actions may be linked to their peaceful advocacy work. She stressed that intimidation or legal action against human rights defenders is unacceptable and should cease immediately.

According to reports cited by The Balochistan Post, concerns about the broader human rights situation in the region were also raised during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

During the session, Dr Shalee Baloch, chief organiser of the Baloch Women Forum, addressed the council through a video message. She described conditions in Balochistan as deeply troubling, alleging that violations persist despite repeated appeals from activists and civil society groups.

She said that Baloch activists have consistently highlighted these issues and sought accountability, but their demands have largely gone unanswered. In a subsequent statement shared on social media, she characterised the situation as an ongoing human rights crisis, pointing to the absence of credible investigations and accountability mechanisms.

Dr Baloch also called on national authorities and international organisations to recognise the seriousness of the situation and take concrete measures to protect the rights of affected communities. She urged global media to report on developments in the region in an impartial manner and to engage directly with local voices.

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The concerns raised at the UN forum reflect growing international attention on alleged rights issues in Balochistan, though Pakistani authorities have not yet publicly responded to the latest remarks.