Pakistani Protestors Demand Autonomy – State of the Planet

Over the past three months, tens of thousands of protestors have filled the streets of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), chanting “Hai Haq Hamra Khudmuktari!” (“Autonomy is our right!”). People from across Pakistan have united to demand change in this region. Since Pakistan’s independence in 1947, GB has lacked political representation in the national parliament, leading to ongoing protests and calls for autonomy. The recent reduction in wheat subsidies has further fueled discontent among protestors, highlighting the region’s dependence on government support. The protests, led by the Awami Action Committee, are demanding the restoration of subsidies and other rights outlined in a Charter of Demands. The protests are unprecedented, spanning a wide range of demands and highlighting the challenges faced by the region, including climate change impacts and food insecurity. Despite some concessions from the government, the protests continue as demonstrators push for more significant changes in GB.