Pakistan Ranks Fifth in Europe for Illegal Migration, NCHR Report Reveals
Rising Economic Challenges Drive Increased Illegal Emigration
Pakistan has surged to fifth place among countries with the most illegal immigrants in Europe, according to the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR). A report by Zunaira Inam, supported by Denmark's Foreign Affairs Ministry and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), attributes this alarming trend to economic hardships, political instability, lack of education, inflation, and terrorism. Nearly 40% of Pakistanis, predominantly from urban areas, express a desire to leave the country for better prospects.
The report highlights a sharp increase in illegal emigration over the past two years. In 2022, Pakistan did not feature among the top 10 countries for illegal migration to Europe. However, by the end of 2023, it had climbed to fifth place, with 8,778 illegal crossings recorded. NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha emphasized that the risks associated with these perilous journeys have not deterred migrants. Many are using routes through Dubai, Egypt, and Libya, with over 13,000 Pakistanis reaching Europe in the first half of 2023 alone.
The findings reveal that migration interest is higher among urban residents (40%) than rural ones (36%). The report underscores the urgent need for solutions to address the root causes driving illegal migration and to ensure safer alternatives for those seeking better opportunities abroad.
Rising Economic Challenges Drive Increased Illegal Emigration
Pakistan has surged to fifth place among countries with the most illegal immigrants in Europe, according to the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR). A report by Zunaira Inam, supported by Denmark's Foreign Affairs Ministry and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), attributes this alarming trend to economic hardships, political instability, lack of education, inflation, and terrorism. Nearly 40% of Pakistanis, predominantly from urban areas, express a desire to leave the country for better prospects.
The report highlights a sharp increase in illegal emigration over the past two years. In 2022, Pakistan did not feature among the top 10 countries for illegal migration to Europe. However, by the end of 2023, it had climbed to fifth place, with 8,778 illegal crossings recorded. NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha emphasized that the risks associated with these perilous journeys have not deterred migrants. Many are using routes through Dubai, Egypt, and Libya, with over 13,000 Pakistanis reaching Europe in the first half of 2023 alone.
The findings reveal that migration interest is higher among urban residents (40%) than rural ones (36%). The report underscores the urgent need for solutions to address the root causes driving illegal migration and to ensure safer alternatives for those seeking better opportunities abroad.