Balochistan Climate Change Policy
Balochistan Climate Change Policy
November 19, 2024
The geopolitical context of Balochistan province in Pakistan is complex and multifaceted, shaped by a combination of historical, strategic, and ethnic factors. Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province in terms of land area, covers approximately 43.6 percent of Pakistan’s total land area and is situated in the southwestern part of the country. Conversely, it holds the distinction of being the least populous province, accounting for ≈6.2 percent of the nation’s total population out of which ≈69 percent lives in rural areas. It shares borders with Iran to the west and Afghanistan to the north. Its geostrategic significance stems from its proximity to the Arabian Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint through which approximately 20-30 percent of the world’s oil supply flows. This geographical position has made Balochistan a focal point for regional and global powers, as control over the province offers leverage in shaping the dynamics of the broader region.