Navigating Complexity: The Balochistan Insurgency and the Future of Regional Security in South Asia

The issue brief discusses the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has emerged as a formidable non-state actor challenging Pakistan's sovereignty and regional stability. With China's expanding presence in Pakistan, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the BLA poses an increasing threat to critical infrastructure projects and foreign investments. Applying Barry Buzan’s Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT) helps contextualize the insurgency within the South Asian security environment, where regional rivalries—especially between India and Pakistan—shape the conflict dynamics. This paper examines the origins, organizational structure, leadership, activities, and funding sources of the BLA. It further explores the group's terrorist operations, external state support—especially Indian intelligence involvement—and their implications for regional security and Chinese interests. The study concludes with strategic recommendations to mitigate the BLA threat over the next decade. The study employed a qualitative methodology, utilizing interviews for primary data collection. Secondary data were drawn from existing resources available during the research period.

ISSUE BRIEFS