The Internal Displacement Crisis: Governance Challenges and the Role of National Responsibility in Balochistan

Abstract

Internal displacement poses significant governance and humanitarian challenges worldwide, particularly in regions affected by conflict, environmental shocks, and socio-political instability. This study examines the internal displacement crisis in Balochistan, Pakistan, focusing on the governance frameworks, the role of civil society organizations (CSOs), and national responsibility in addressing the needs of displaced populations. The research aims to assess government policies and emergency response mechanisms, evaluate CSO capacities, and explore challenges related to transparency and accountability. Employing qualitative research design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 members of civil society organizations working in Quetta, Balochistan. Thematic analysis revealed four key themes: governance inefficiencies and policy gaps, CSO capacity and resource limitations, challenges in transparency and accountability, and collaboration between state and non-state actors. Participants emphasized systemic weaknesses in planning and implementation of displacement response programs, highlighting constraints in financial and human resources, as well as limited coordination among agencies. Findings also underscored the critical role of CSOs in filling service gaps, advocating for displaced communities, and promoting accountability. This study contributes to the understanding of internal displacement management in Pakistan by documenting the perspectives of frontline actors and identifying structural and operational barriers to effective governance. Recommendations focus on enhancing inter-agency coordination, building CSO capacity, and developing transparent, responsive frameworks to uphold national responsibility towards internally displaced persons. By integrating governance analysis with civil society perspectives, the research provides evidence-based insights for policymakers, humanitarian actors, and scholars interested in addressing internal displacement challenges in fragile contexts.