BALOCHISTAN, the 43% of Pakistani geography has experienced prolonged socio-political turbulence. During this period, a number of internal fault lines have deepened, while external actors have also sought to exploit existing grievances for their own strategic interests. The persistence of these challenges indicates that conventional approaches have not been sufficient. A comprehensive review of the situation, followed by a process of policy correction, is therefore necessary. Among the various challenges confronting the province, the growth of sub-nationalist tendencies requires particular attention. Regardless of how different groups interpret the underlying causes, the fact remains that prolonged alienation, socio-economic deprivation, political disconnect and limited opportunities for young people can create an environment in which militant and anti-state narratives find space to influence vulnerable segments of society. The youth, in particular, are central to this contest because they represent both the province’s greatest potential asset and one of its most vulnerable constituencies.The answer, therefore, cannot be confined to a security response. Balochistan requires a comprehensive strategy centred on engagement, ownership, opportunity and trust. The federal government, provincial government, political leadership and state institutions all have important roles to play in this process.

The first and foremost requirement is immediate and sustained engagement with the youth and the wider population of Balochistan. This engagement should operate simultaneously at three levels: social, political and economic.Social engagement is the foundation of the entire process. The people and youth of the province need........

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