Balochistan's Journalism Sector Faces Severe Hurdles, Says Senior Journalist
Balochistan's journalism sector faces severe hurdles, with weakened institutions and limited space for independent reporting, according to senior journalist Shehzada Zulfiqar. Abdul Malik Baloch, National Party President, attributes the province's crises to unresolved democratic and national questions, stressing the need for equal dignity for all languages and cultures in a multi-ethnic state.
At the Kech Cultural Festival in October 2025, a key speaker called for reforms in education, media landscape, more inclusive governance, and protection of regional rights. Malik Baloch suggests genuine dialogue between the federal government and Balochistan as the solution to the province's persistent challenges. He also calls for granting democratic and constitutional freedoms to the people for progress.
Pervez Hoodbhoy emphasizes the importance of mother-tongue education at the primary level to enhance children's understanding and cultural identity. He observes that social media is increasingly becoming a tool for cultural and civic expression in the province. Irfan Saeed, Quetta Press Club President, points out that journalism in the province is losing its essence, and journalists from the Makran region could play a pivotal role in bridging this gap.
Despite these challenges, the literacy rate in Balochistan remains below 50 per cent, and poverty and social inequality are deepening. However, the cultural vibrancy seen in Kech reflects that 'the real Balochistan is still alive', as asserted by Irfan Saeed.
The future of Balochistan's journalism and society depends on addressing these challenges. Reforms in education, media, and governance, along with genuine dialogue and respect for cultural identities, are crucial for progress and stability in the province.
