A Glance Over the Identity Riddle: Youth’s Identities, Multiculturalism, and Peace Building in Balochistan

Abstract

This article examines how youth identities, multiculturalism and peace building interplay in Balochistan and suggests alternative pathways for empowerment and career paths. A part of the HEC, HEDP-GCF project "Shared destiny: Harmony and growth in culture and career," the research involved 800 youth in different districts of Balochistan who were probed about their views & aspiration on identity, multiculturalism, inclusivity, and career pathways. The results indicate relatively strong associations between endorsement of multicultural values and youth empowerment, with 83% supporting equal rights for disadvantage groups. It stresses the significance of inclusive policies and community-based interventions in ensuring sustainable peace, dignified livelihood and career advancement. In addition, almost half of participants confirmed the experience of having multiple identities, which can contribute to a more layered self-concept and correlate positively with peace building involvement. Nevertheless, a large minority were dissatisfied with their education and employment. This reflects structural obstacles to the realization of aspirations. This analysis highlights the importance of targeted interventions rooted in cultural diversity to allow beneficial engagement of Balochistan’s youth to address the inequalities as champions of social justice and inclusive development. The results have important implication for the policy-makers, teachers, and practitioners who are focused to improve the youth development and social cohesion in Balochistan.