More than 727,000 Pakistanis sought employment abroad in 2024 which marked a 15 percent drop from the 862,625 who migrated for work the previous year, according to official data.
While some view the decrease as a setback for the country, others believe it presents an opportunity for skilled professionals to enhance their expertise and bring valuable knowledge back to Pakistan.
Despite the decline in outward migration, remittances from overseas Pakistanis continue to play a pivotal role in stabilizing the national economy.
Data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) revealed that remittances reached a record $34.634 billion in 2024, reflecting a 31.36 percent year-on-year increase.
This influx of foreign currency has been crucial in bolstering Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves and addressing its growing import bills.
Economist Usama Siddiqui highlighted that remittances have become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy, helping to cushion the impact of ongoing economic challenges.
He warned, however, that without these financial inflows, Pakistan’s economic situation would have been far worse.
Concerns persist, however, over the country’s escalating brain drain, the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics reported that 200,000 skilled and professional workers left the country in 2024.
While the loss of talent is concerning, some experts argue that migration provides individuals with the opportunity to develop new skills and gain international experience, which could ultimately benefit Pakistan upon their return.
Pakistani expatriates in developed countries are increasingly seen as key contributors to knowledge transfer, education, investment, and entrepreneurship.
Sheikh Tahir Imran, a Pakistani professional based in the United States, acknowledged the brain drain as a challenge but stressed that many professionals struggle to expand their skills within Pakistan’s existing infrastructure.
He believes that these individuals, after gaining experience in more advanced economies, can return to Pakistan to share expertise and bring back cutting-edge technology.
Sikandar Salman, a British Pakistani, suggested that Pakistan could better leverage the potential of its vast pool of skilled professionals.
He pointed to India’s success in embracing its diaspora, including high-profile figures like the British Prime Minister of Indian descent, and urged Pakistan to take a similar approach to maximize the benefits of its global talent network.
In the long term, experts argue that Pakistan could turn the migration of its professionals into an asset, ensuring they continue to contribute both locally and globally.
Source: DAWN
