Geographic distribution
The total population of
ethnic
Baluch people is estimated to be around 15 million worldwide. However,
the exact number of those who are Baluch or claim to be of Baluch
ancestry is difficult to determine. As of 2010, the Baluch are 4.97% of
Pakistan's 177 million people.
[1] They make up 2% of Afghanistan's roughly 30 million people
[31] and 2% of Iran's estimated 77 million.
[32]
Major ethnic groups in Pakistan, Afghanistan and the surrounding areas, 1980. The Baluch are shown in pink.
Baluch ancestry is also claimed in the neighboring areas that adjoin Baluch majority lands. The
Brahui are also considered Baluch but they speak the
Brahui language. Despite very few cultural differences from the Baluch. Many Baluch outside of Balochistan are also
bilingual or of mixed ancestry due to their proximity to other ethnic groups, including the
Sindhis,
Saraikis and
Pashtuns.
A large number of Baluch have been migrating to or living in provinces
adjacent to Balochistan for centuries. In addition, there are many
Baluch living in other parts of the world, with the bulk living in the
GCC countries of the
Persian Gulf. The Baluch are an important community in
Oman, where they make up a sizable minority.
Many Baloch over the years have migrated to Punjab for its lush green
fertility and they can be found in large numbers in South Punjab,
Central Punjab and in Lahore but most of them identify themselves now as
Punjabis. There is a small population of Baluch in several Western countries such as
Sweden and
Australia.
Some Baluch settled in Australia in the 19th century; some
fourth-generation Baluch still live there, mainly in the western city of
Perth.
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