Human smuggling solution

The recent announcement that Pakistan, Italy, Spain and Greece have reached a consensus to establish legal migration pathways while jointly combating human smuggling marks a new beginning after several years of failed attempts to curb illegal migration operations. These operations take advantage of the desperation of economically-deprived Pakistanis or oppressed minorities who are seeking a better life in affluent countries, especially in Europe.

While there is still much work to be done before formal agreements can be signed, there have already been some breakthroughs on smaller levels, including recent deals with Italy for 10,500 work visas for Pakistani workers in sectors including shipbreaking, hospitality, healthcare and agriculture. Many of these sectors are already popular among illegal migrants from Pakistan, so the visa deal is essentially a way to formalise workforce participation and bring them out of the dark.

Work visa agreements benefit all parties, since they help host countries address under-the-table employment and the use of grey channels. At the same time, Pakistan's oversupply of less educated youngsters would find many opportunities in physical, labour-intensive professions, which are generally unpopular among local citizens in most wealthy countries. And because work visas would give workers legal status, they would also be more likely to use formal banking channels, especially for remitting money.

Pakistan's recent efforts to reduce illegal migration had already been bearing fruit — the European states reportedly said there has been a 47% reduction in illegal migration cases, and the availability of a legal option will obviously deliver another blow to traffickers. The new understanding between Pakistan and the three European countries is proof that migration issues can have win-win solutions reachable through diplomatic means, as long as the parties approach talks earnestly. Aside from legal migration pathways, additional support to crack down on human traffickers will also help clear up the situation on the ground here and encourage more people to choose safe and legal channels.