Pakistan's Global Humiliation: UN Probes Disruption During PM Sharif's Speech

A high-profile event on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, meant to showcase Pakistan's diplomatic presence, instead became the stage for a significant international embarrassment. During Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's address, the solemn atmosphere was shattered by a barrage of anti-Pakistan slogans, prompting the UN to launch a formal investigation into the security lapse.

The disruption occurred as PM Sharif delivered his speech, unexpectedly interrupted by activists from the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM).

Their chants, strident and clear, brought allegations of human rights violations in Pakistan's regions of Balochistan and Waziristan to the forefront of a global audience. Slogans such as "Stop Baloch genocide," "Free Pashtuns," and "No more enforced disappearances" echoed through the hall, painting a stark contrast to the cooperative spirit the event aimed to foster.

This incident quickly drew the attention of diplomatic circles and international media.

Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN, Munir Akram, wasted no time in lodging a strong complaint with the UN. The immediate consequence of this protest was the UN's decision to initiate a probe, aiming to understand how such a breach of protocol and security could occur during a high-level gathering involving a head of government.

The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, at the heart of this protest, is a human rights organization advocating for the rights of ethnic Pashtuns in Pakistan.

They have consistently raised concerns over issues like extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and the impact of military operations in their regions. Their decision to voice these grievances directly during the Prime Minister's speech on an international platform underscores the depth of their frustration and their determination to draw global attention.

For Pakistan, this event represents a significant diplomatic setback.

Occurring during the prestigious UN General Assembly, it not only diverted attention from PM Sharif's intended message but also put the spotlight squarely on internal human rights issues, potentially undermining Pakistan's image on the world stage. The ongoing UN investigation will further scrutinize the circumstances, adding another layer of complexity to Pakistan's international engagements.