The Sociological implications of the CPEC Project and its Impact on Internal and External migration in Gwadar, Balochistan (Pakistan)

Abstract

This research paper examines the sociological implications of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project on internal and external migration in Gwadar, Balochistan, Pakistan. The project, initiated in 2015 as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), represents a noteworthy investment in infrastructure connectivity and change between China and Pakistan, offering substantial economic benefits. It also addresses critical socioeconomic challenges, mainly in Baloch Indigenous communities, by generating employment and expanding infrastructure. While this study highlights the aims of migrants, internal and external migration, and international and local socio-cultural landscapes, the result is the marginalization of the Baloch people. This research qualitative method, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, revealed that residents, competition for opportunities, infrastructure, socioeconomic, cultural dislocation, and labor migration disrupted traditional gender basis, intensifying social susceptibilities. Furthermore, this paper emphasizes the importance of wide-ranging policies that are the local communities in making decision processes interrelated to the CPEC.

Keywords: Sociological Implication, Internal Migration, External Migration, Indigenous Baloch Community