Drowning dreams: the plight of Pakistani migrants

On 14^th June 2023, a boat carrying over 750 migrants sank in open seas off Greece, in one of Europe’s deadliest shipping disasters. As the tragedy unfolded, it was revealed that at least 300 Pakistani nationals who were forced onto the lower deck of the boat lost their lives in the tragic incident.

In response, the FIA announced plans to form teams in major cities nationwide to nab traffickers and disrupt trafficking networks. Unfortunately, this has failed to prevent thousands of Pakistani men from continuing to pay traffickers and board boats. A year later, two boats sank off Italy, leaving 12 passengers dead, including Pakistani immigrants.

In recent years, illegal migration across the world has grown at an alarming pace, fueled by ongoing wars, humanitarian crises and increasing instances of climate change-related events. The complex interplay of these factors, coupled with trafficking networks spanning across borders, has made it challenging for authorities to tackle the problem.

Some affluent Pakistanis argue that Pakistani nationals victimised in such incidents are at fault themselves, seeing them as a source of embarrassment for the country. This perspective fails to acknowledge the deteriorating economic situation that has accelerated both legal and illegal migration. Since 2021, deepening political polarisation and social crises have left the majority of youth disillusioned about their future, forcing many to seek greener pastures elsewhere.

Longstanding social problems, including high rates of illiteracy, absence of social welfare and a lack of employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labour, are at the root of increasing migration. The Covid pandemic, followed by the superfloods of 2022, not only aggravated the country’s socioeconomic woes but also intensified the anxieties of the working-class population. Additionally, the exploitation and poor treatment of workers in Pakistani workplaces, where they often face harsh conditions and low salaries, further compel many to migrate in search of better opportunities.

In the aftermath of the Greek tragedy, many victims’ families came forward to share stories of how they funded the journeys of their sons, brothers and husbands. Their accounts revealed stories of extreme poverty and despair. Boys as young as 14 were among the victims who drowned at sea. Their families said the boys made the journey in pursuit of a better livelihood to provide for their families. TikToks of victims on the boat later surfaced on social media showing their cramped and suffocating surroundings.

Unfortunately for Pakistani refugees, the deprivation and disregard they experience at home persist throughout their journey and rarely cease when they reach their destinations of choice. Forced onto the lower decks of boats, they are often the last ones to be rescued. Besides religious minorities, Pakistani refugees are typically categorised as economic migrants, making them a lower priority for European authorities compared to those fleeing conflicts and wars.

The Pakistani state’s persistent neglect of its citizens has made refugees increasingly vulnerable to exploitation by traffickers and mistreatment by authorities in the countries where they seek refuge. More often than not, they end up working in illegal markets and sleeping rough, which further tarnishes their reputation among the locals.

The constant news of Pakistani nationals losing their lives in the Mediterranean signals that efforts to curb trafficking alone are insufficient. While improving awareness in trafficking hotspots is essential, the country’s stakeholders must take comprehensive action. Provincial and federal governments need to do more than pay lip service: they must rehabilitate the faltering education system, invest in social welfare and collaborate with industries to create employment opportunities. Ensuring fair treatment and better working conditions within Pakistan is crucial to reducing the desperation that drives many to seek uncertain futures abroad. Addressing these underlying causes of migration is essential for stemming the tide of illegal migration and creating an environment where the youth see a future for themselves within Pakistan.