Dr Mahrang Baloch: Time's Most Influential People 2024

In a remarkable recognition of her efforts, Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, has been named one of Time magazine’s most influential people in its ‘2024 Time100 Next’ list. This prestigious list highlights 100 young individuals who are making significant impacts in various fields, including art, sports, and advocacy. Dr. Mahrang has been acknowledged for her peaceful advocacy for Baloch rights, a cause that has become increasingly important in Pakistan.

Time magazine described the list as a way to showcase individuals who are not waiting for opportunities to make a difference. Instead, they are actively shaping their futures and the futures of their communities. Dr. Mahrang’s inclusion is a testament to her dedication and the courage she has shown in her fight for justice. In December 2023, she led a significant march to Islamabad, where she and hundreds of women demanded justice for their missing loved ones, including husbands, sons, and brothers.

Expressing her gratitude, Dr. Mahrang stated, "I am deeply honoured and delighted to be named among the top 100 emerging leaders of the world by TIME." She dedicated this recognition to all Baloch women human rights defenders and the families of victims of enforced disappearances. Her journey began when her father, Ghaffar Longove, went missing in December 2009. At that time, she was just a primary school student. The pain of her father’s disappearance pushed her into activism, leading her to burn her school books in protest outside the Quetta Press Club, demanding his return.

Tragically, her father’s mutilated body was discovered in 2011, a heartbreaking event that fueled her resolve to fight for the rights of the Baloch people. In December 2023, Dr. Mahrang played a crucial role in organizing a large march and sit-in in Islamabad to protest against enforced disappearances, a pressing issue in Balochistan. A report released in July revealed that 197 cases of missing persons were reported in the first half of 2024 alone, highlighting the ongoing struggle faced by many families in the region.

Dr. Mahrang is not alone in her recognition. Other notable figures on the Time list include Nahid Islam, a student leader from Bangladesh, and Hamada Shaqoura, a food blogger from Gaza. Islam led student protests that resulted in significant political changes in Bangladesh, while Shaqoura has gained attention for his wartime food blogging, sharing recipes and meals during a time of conflict.

While Dr. Mahrang celebrates this achievement, it is essential to remember the broader context of her work. The struggles faced by the Baloch people and other marginalized communities continue to demand attention and action. Dr. Mahrang’s story is not just about personal triumph; it is a call to action for all of us to support human rights and justice. As she continues her advocacy, her recognition serves as a reminder that every voice matters and that change is possible when individuals stand up for what is right.