Geopolitics, statehood, violence and space compression in Gilgit-Baltistan

Existent literature about Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) has made remarkable contributions in furthering the understanding about this region which is unique for its ambiguous constitutional status and multicultural society. This article aims to complement the existing works specifically in the theoretical domain of statehood and governance. It argues that the single most important factor, which crucially accounts for the prevailing woes of GB and its inhabitants, is the compression of its multidimensional spatial fabric, which can be explained by applying the epistemology of public space. Resultantly, a more meaningful and cohesive delineation of the complex landscape of GB can be engendered, while in the process introducing also a novel theoretical lens to be applied by future research for studies done in similar settings. Specifically, a set of three variables – geopolitics, liminal statehood, organized violence – is interrogated from this distinctive framework. Among other findings including the need to revisit the assumptions by some scholars construing the Pakistani state as colonial, the space to enlarge the scope of integration and participation emerges in particular. The conclusion reflects on the reasons underlying the persistence of conditions produced by the spatial compression and discusses some among the broad policy implications that affect law and governance in GB.