Economic Woes, Smuggler Networks, and the Dream of a Better Life — Why Pakistanis Are Leaving the Country in Record Numbers?
Over the past few years, there has been a significant rise in the number of Pakistanis leaving the country, with long queues at passport offices and visa centers being a common sight. This growing trend reflects deeper economic, social, and psychological factors that are compelling many individuals to seek better futures abroad. This news report highlights the main reasons behind this migration trend, its implications, and what lies ahead.
1. Economic Struggles: Unemployment and Inflation
One of the major driving forces behind this exodus is Pakistan’s struggling economy. The country has seen soaring inflation and continuous devaluation of the Pakistani rupee, which has reduced the purchasing power of ordinary citizens. According to estimates, more than 4.5 million people are currently unemployed, and the unemployment rate among youth aged 15–24 stands at over 11%. With limited job opportunities and rising living costs, many Pakistanis feel forced to look overseas for economic survival.
2. The Numbers Behind the Departure
Official data reveals that between January and March 2025, over 172,000 Pakistanis left the country in search of overseas employment. Out of these, more than 121,000 went to Saudi Arabia, 13,000 to Qatar, 6,800 to the UAE, and 8,300 to Oman. This is part of a growing wave of labor migration, especially to Gulf countries where there is high demand for construction workers, drivers, electricians, welders, and other skilled or semi-skilled labor.
3. Who’s Leaving and How?
(a) Legal Work Visas
Many Pakistanis are taking the legal route, applying for work permits and employment contracts, especially in the Middle East. These migrants typically go through proper channels and are placed in labor sectors or service industries.
(b) Illegal and Dangerous Routes
Unfortunately, a large number of desperate individuals opt for illegal migration paths. Human smuggling networks lure them with false promises of a better life in Europe, often at great personal cost. Many of these journeys involve dangerous sea routes or land crossings through countries like Iran, Libya, and Turkey.
In June 2025, a tragic incident occurred where 44 Pakistanis died while attempting to reach Europe via an illegal boat route. Earlier in February, 16 more Pakistanis lost their lives off the coast of Libya. These are just a few of the many heartbreaking examples of how dangerous this form of migration can be.
4. Root Causes Driving the Exodus
(a) Economic Instability
As noted, Pakistan’s high inflation, currency collapse, and lack of employment opportunities are pushing people out in search of stability and income abroad.
(b) Family and Education-Based Migration
Another significant portion of migrants are students and families aiming for a better future, education, or reunification with family members already living overseas.
(c) Role of Smuggler Networks
Smugglers exploit poverty and desperation by marketing illegal routes as quick and easy. They operate through social media, convincing thousands to risk their lives for the hope of reaching Western countries.
5. Government and Social Responses
The government has taken some steps to curb human smuggling, such as increased border checks, arrests of smuggling agents, and awareness campaigns. However, many experts believe that these measures remain insufficient, as the core issue—economic desperation—has not been addressed.
Civil society organizations and media outlets are also playing their part, creating awareness through videos and stories of failed or fatal migration attempts. Yet, the lack of sustainable local opportunities continues to drive people toward risky decisions.
6. Consequences and the Way Forward
(a) Human and Emotional Costs
Families are losing loved ones to treacherous journeys. The trauma and financial burden left behind is immeasurable for those who remain.
(b) Economic Gains vs Risks
If managed properly, legal migration can result in increased remittances, helping to strengthen the national economy. However, illegal migration exposes the country to diplomatic, legal, and humanitarian crises.
(c) Recommendations
- Simplify and promote legal work visa programs, especially with Gulf countries.
- Strengthen legal action against human trafficking and enhance border security.
- Launch public awareness campaigns about the dangers of illegal migration.
- Invest in job creation, skill training, and youth entrepreneurship programs.
- Support reintegration programs for returnees through financial and psychological assistance.
Conclusion
The increasing number of Pakistanis leaving the country reflects a combination of hope, desperation, and systemic challenges. While some are fortunate to find better lives abroad through legal means, others face tragedy, exploitation, or even death. To reverse or manage this trend, Pakistan must address the root causes—most importantly economic instability—and offer its citizens real reasons to stay. If left unaddressed, this brain drain and labour flight could pose long-term social and national challenges.
