Resolving Balochistan Conflict: A Human Needs Approach

Abstract

The current study presents the analysis of Baluchistan conflict with a lens of Human Needs Theory (HNT) and tries to find out the possible resolution of conflict in accordance with the parameters given by HNT. The first part deals briefly with the major issues of the conflict in Baluchistan, which provides an insight to the conflict. The second part outlines the ideas of HNT theorists; i.e. John Burton and Abraham Maslow. The third part provides the application of HNT to the conflict in Baluchistan, which aims at to find out a mechanism that may help to reach at a possible resolution of the conflict. The study also takes into account the matters regarding Baloch grievances, the sense of deprivation, lack of trust, the issues of perception and enemy images. The analysis of Baluchistan conflict through Human Needs Theory and having awareness about the effect of enemy images and perceptions after more than a decade of conflict, study recommends that a needsbased solution is within reach. It just needs to be viewed with a different eye, which should focus on the conflict with reference to natural human needs, respecting their natural responses and only by fulfillment of these natural needs, the conflict can be mitigated. Connecting with their needs, rather than using enemy images and labeling, may prove successful in Baluchistan.