Speech by Balakhsher Baloch, Mayor of Turbat, Pakistan,
at the debate on “Local and regional democracy around the world”
Honorable Mayors, Distinguished Representatives, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a privilege to stand before you today and share the perspective of Turbat, a city that embodies both the challenges and the potential of local democracy in Pakistan and the wider Asia-Pacific region. As the elected Mayor of Turbat, I represent a city that, despite its size, has a deep commitment to democratic governance, youth engagement, and sustainable urban development.
Local democracy is the backbone of effective governance. It is at the city level where policies are implemented, where people’s voices are heard most clearly, and where solutions to global challenges take root. However, for many cities, especially in the Global South, the path to strengthening local democracy is filled with structural, financial, and administrative hurdles.
In Turbat, we have seen firsthand how decentralization can empower local governments to deliver better services, foster civic engagement, and drive economic development. Our city has the highest literacy rate in our province and is ranked among the top in the country, thanks to our investments in education and youth empowerment. More than 70% of my council consists of young people—this is not just a statistic but a reflection of our belief in a future shaped by the next generation.
Yet, local democracy cannot thrive without adequate resources and institutional support. One of our major challenges is the lack of fiscal autonomy, which limits our ability to plan and implement long-term projects. Without the ability to generate and manage our own revenue, our potential for growth remains restricted. Moreover, cities like Turbat need stronger regional and international collaboration to exchange best practices, share resources, and advocate for greater recognition of local governments in national and international decision-making.
Climate resilience is another urgent concern. As mayors, we must ensure that our cities are prepared to tackle climate-related challenges such as extreme weather, water scarcity, and rising temperatures. In Turbat, we are committed to leading climate adaptation programs, but without access to technical expertise and financial support, sustainable solutions remain difficult to implement.
Today’s discussion is a testament to the fact that whether we govern a global capital like Paris, a regional hub like Lusaka, or a growing city like Turbat, we share common aspirations—stronger local governance, greater autonomy, and a more sustainable and inclusive future.
This is why international frameworks, such as the European Charter of Local Self-Government, offer valuable lessons. The principles of decentralization, financial independence, and legal protection for local governments are essential for fostering democratic stability. While the political structures in Pakistan differ from Europe, the core values of local democracy—autonomy, accountability, and citizen participation—are universal.
Before I conclude, I want to take this huge opportunity to make a direct request to all the esteemed delegates here today. Turbat needs your support. We seek partnerships to provide:
• Scholarships for our students in European universities, giving them access to quality education and opportunities for global engagement.
• Training programs for our engineers and doctors, enabling them to enhance their skills and return to Turbat better equipped to serve and develop our city.
• Capacity-building initiatives for our council members, strengthening governance and ensuring that our local institutions are prepared to meet future challenges.
Investing in education and skill development is the key to transforming cities like Turbat into engines of progress. With your collaboration, we can empower our youth, strengthen our institutions, and build a resilient and thriving future.
Let us use this platform to build partnerships, exchange ideas, and advocate for the central role of cities in shaping our world. The future of governance is local, and it is up to us to ensure that our cities are equipped with the tools, resources, and authority to serve our people effectively.
Thank you.