Renowned global passport ranking organisation, Nomad Capitalist, has just released its annual list of the world's most powerful passports - and while Ireland basks in the glory of the top spot, Pakistan has once again found itself languishing near the very bottom, ranked 195th out of 199. Falling behind the top-ranked Ireland are Greece, Switzerland and Portugal.
No one expects miracles when it comes to Pakistani passport. But the extent of our decline is alarming. A weak passport suggests a lot more than just difficulty in travel and points to weak diplomacy and a lack of political will to create the kind of freedoms and incentives that make citizenship globally valuable. When countries restrict Pakistani travellers or impose strict conditions, it reflects their perception of our state institutions, security risks, as well as socio-political instability. Moreover, the ranking's focus on dual citizenship and tax policies highlight on a blind spot in our governance.
While many nations are courting global citizens with flexible taxation and multiple nationality options, Pakistan remains rigid and exclusionary, driving away talent and investment. It is no coincidence that our best minds often find themselves leaving the country for opportunities abroad, only to face the limitations of holding a passport that offers few return options.
If Pakistan is serious about reversing this trajectory, it must treat this ranking as a wake-up call. We need comprehensive immigration and citizenship reforms that make our passport more desirable. We need foreign policy that rebuilds trust. We need to make it easier for the Pakistani diaspora to contribute, invest and return without bureaucratic hurdles. Until then, our citizens will continue to queue at consulates and face suspicion at borders.
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