In 2024, more than 727,000 Pakistanis moved abroad in search of job opportunities, marking a 15% decline compared to 2023, when around 862,000 individuals left the country. While some may see this decrease as a loss for Pakistan, others argue that it could bring new chances for skilled professionals to grow and gain valuable experience abroad. This shift in migration trends also raises important questions about how it will affect Pakistan’s workforce and economy in the long run.
Despite the reduced number of people leaving for jobs overseas, one positive aspect remains: remittances. Overseas Pakistanis continue to send money back home, helping to stabilize Pakistan’s economy. In 2024, Pakistan received a remarkable $34.634 billion in remittances, showing a 31.36% increase compared to the previous year. These remittances play a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves and managing the country’s import bills.
Economist Usama Siddiqui emphasized that remittances have become the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. Without this financial support from Pakistanis abroad, the country’s economic challenges could have been much worse. The steady flow of remittances helps sustain economic activity and provides a buffer against rising costs and inflation.
However, there are concerns about the growing “brain drain” — the loss of skilled professionals who are leaving the country for better opportunities abroad. According to the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics, around 200,000 skilled workers left Pakistan in 2024. This loss of talent could potentially have negative effects on Pakistan’s workforce, as these individuals bring with them valuable expertise and knowledge.
On the other hand, some believe that migration can actually benefit Pakistan in the long run. When skilled professionals go abroad, they often gain new skills and knowledge that can be brought back to the country once they return. Pakistani workers in developed countries are not just improving their own capabilities but also contributing to areas like education, technology, investment, and entrepreneurship.
Sheikh Tahir Imran, a Pakistani living in the United States, acknowledged that brain drain can be a setback. However, he pointed out that many professionals find it difficult to grow their careers within Pakistan due to the lack of infrastructure and opportunities. By working in advanced countries, they gain expertise that can be shared with Pakistan upon their return, helping to drive development and innovation.
Sikandar Salman, a British Pakistani, raised an important point: Pakistan still has millions of professionals, and the country should focus on using their talents more effectively. He argued that Pakistan could take a cue from countries like India, which has seen many successful individuals, including the British Prime Minister of Indian descent, rise to prominence globally. India has embraced the mobility of its professionals, and this approach could work for Pakistan as well.
Read Also: Rumors Surrounding Ali Rehman and Fitness Trainer Nusrat!
