Balochis

The Balochis, or Balochs, are an Iranian-speaking ethnic group native to Balochistan, a region that spans parts of southwestern Pakistan, southeastern Iran, and southern Afghanistan. They form the largest ethnic group in Pakistan's Balochistan Province and have substantial communities in Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan and in southern Afghanistan. Diaspora communities are present in the Gulf states, Europe, and North America.

They primarily speak Balochi, a Northwestern Iranian language with several dialects, and many are multilingual, using Urdu or Persian in daily life. In parts of Pakistan, Balochi coexists with the Brahui language. Balochi literary traditions are rich in oral poetry and storytelling.

Balochi society is traditionally clan- and tribe-based, with leadership historically provided by sardars and governed by customary law and riwaj. The economy has included pastoralism and agriculture, though urbanization has increased recently. Culturally, Balochis are known for distinctive dress, embroidery, music, and poetry. Most are Muslims, with Sunni majorities and minority Shia or Ismaili communities.

Historically, the Balochi region has been a crossroads of empires and trade routes. In modern times, political movements for greater autonomy or independence have emerged, particularly in Pakistan since 1947 and, to a lesser extent, in Iran. Today Balochis live across borders and participate in the political, cultural, and economic life of their respective states.