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Amnesty International has raised urgent concerns about the trial of Baloch human rights activists in Pakistan, which is being conducted behind closed doors before a military court. The activists face charges related to their advocacy work, and the lack of transparency in the proceedings has drawn international criticism.
Who Are the Accused?
The activists are members of the Baloch community, one of Pakistan's most marginalized ethnic groups. They have been vocal about human rights violations in Balochistan, including enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and military operations against civilian populations. Their arrest and prosecution are seen by many as retaliation for their activism.
Military Courts: No Place for Civilians
Amnesty International has long argued that military courts should never be used to try civilians. These courts lack the independence, transparency, and due process protections required under international law. The closed nature of the proceedings makes it impossible for independent observers to assess whether the accused are receiving a fair trial.
Trying human rights defenders in secret military courts is not justice. It is intimidation. Pakistan must transfer these cases to civilian courts and ensure that the accused receive fair trials with full access to legal representation.
What This Means for Pakistani Asylum Claims
The closed-door military trial of Baloch activists over their advocacy shows how Pakistan treats rights work on Balochistan. Baloch activists rely on political opinion and race/ethnicity, since they belong to one of the country's most marginalised groups and campaign on enforced disappearances and killings. Trial of civilians in a military court without transparency is evidence that a criminal case can be persecution rather than legitimate prosecution. Our Pakistan country expert witness reports assess risk for activists and those close to them.
Sources
Amnesty International: Pakistan — Baloch Activists in Closed Trial
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