Arshad Ali Awan
Human trafficking remains one of Pakistan’s most severe and persistent crises, preying on the desperation of vulnerable individuals searching for better opportunities. The recent boat disaster off Greece’s coast, which resulted in the tragic loss of five Pakistani nationals, is a sobering reminder of the high stakes involved for many people who embark on dangerous journeys in search of a brighter future. While the Pakistani government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has made public commitments to combat human trafficking, the real challenge lies in translating these promises into sustainable and effective actions that can bring about long-term change.
Human trafficking in Pakistan thrives on the desperation of young individuals, often from poor or middle-class families. These individuals are lured by traffickers with promises of lucrative job opportunities abroad, only to find themselves trapped in an exploitative cycle. Families desperate to improve their economic situation often sell land, livestock, or borrow large sums of money, ranging from Rs4 million to Rs6 million, to fund these perilous journeys. Instead of finding the promised opportunities, many end up dead at sea, while others face imprisonment in foreign countries. The situation is exacerbated by rising unemployment, inflation, and economic instability, which make individuals more vulnerable to the manipulative tactics of traffickers. These criminal networks operate with impunity, often with the tacit approval or direct involvement of corrupt officials within government institutions, further complicating efforts to combat human trafficking effectively.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent directives to seize traffickers’ properties, intensify legal actions, and enforce stricter prosecutions mark an encouraging start in addressing this issue. His government has also emphasized enhancing airport screenings, launching public awareness campaigns, and promoting legal channels for overseas employment. However, while these measures are promising, they must go beyond mere announcements. The real test lies in their implementation. Arresting facilitators, dismantling the networks that support traffickers, and rooting out corrupt officials within government institutions are crucial steps toward achieving a meaningful impact. The tragic boat disaster off the coast of Greece is far from an isolated incident; in fact, it is part of a larger pattern. In recent years, hundreds of Pakistani migrants have perished while attempting dangerous crossings to Europe in search of better prospects. The 2023 boat disaster near Greece, which claimed the lives of hundreds of Pakistanis, is a glaring example of how dire the situation has become. While cracking down on traffickers is necessary, it is equally important to address the root causes driving people to take such desperate measures.
The primary reason many individuals risk their lives by engaging in human trafficking schemes is the lack of economic opportunities in Pakistan. Unemployment is rising, and inflation is spiraling, forcing many skilled and educated individuals to seek work abroad. To address this issue at its core, the government must prioritize job creation, improve economic stability, and invest in technical training institutes to equip individuals with the skills necessary to compete in the global job market. Additionally, the government must work toward the development of industries that provide sustainable and long-term employment opportunities within Pakistan. Only through economic empowerment can Pakistan hope to reduce the vulnerability of its citizens to exploitation by traffickers.
Pl watch the video and subscribe to the YouTube channel of republicpolicy.com
In parallel with domestic efforts, Pakistan’s government must also engage in international cooperation to tackle human trafficking at a global level. Coordinating with foreign authorities is essential to ensure the swift extradition and prosecution of traffickers operating beyond Pakistan’s borders. Trafficking networks often span multiple countries, and without cross-border cooperation, these criminals can evade justice. Furthermore, Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting must intensify efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal immigration. Public awareness campaigns should not only highlight the risks associated with such journeys but also promote safer and legal alternatives for overseas employment. A significant cultural shift is needed to change the perception that illegal migration is a viable solution to economic hardships. This shift must begin with education, as many individuals are unaware of the severe risks they face when falling prey to traffickers. Promoting legal pathways for migration and employment will go a long way in reducing the number of people who seek to take matters into their own hands.
The fight against human trafficking is not just about cracking down on traffickers—it demands systemic reform and a holistic approach to protecting the vulnerable. The focus must also be on addressing the underlying socio-economic issues that fuel the trafficking networks in the first place. The global picture of human trafficking is just as bleak. According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime’s Global Report on Trafficking in Persons, human trafficking increased significantly in 2022 due to ongoing conflicts, climate-induced catastrophes, and global crises. The report highlighted a 25% increase in detected trafficking victims compared to pre-pandemic levels, with children accounting for 38% of victims—a rise from 35% in 2020. Given the bloody conflicts and geopolitical instability that have emerged in 2023 and 2024, the next report will likely present an even more distressing picture. It is truly shameful that the international community, despite acknowledging the widespread nature of human trafficking, has failed to address the crisis with the urgency it demands. Countries must act decisively, not only to combat trafficking but also to address its root causes: economic despair, lack of education, and systemic corruption. Without tackling these core issues, the cycle of exploitation will continue unabated.
Pakistan’s commitment to tackling human trafficking must be backed by substantial, sustained efforts. Prime Minister Sharif’s recent announcements are a step in the right direction, but they need to be part of a broader, long-term strategy. Human trafficking will not be eradicated overnight, but with concerted effort, both domestically and internationally, significant progress can be made. The government must invest in creating a safer, more prosperous environment for its citizens, while simultaneously cracking down on the traffickers who exploit their vulnerabilities. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns must educate citizens about the dangers of illegal migration and provide them with the knowledge of safer, legal alternatives.
The international community, too, must step up its efforts to combat human trafficking. This requires more than just surface-level discussions or token gestures of cooperation. Tackling this issue demands coordinated action, stronger laws, and more robust enforcement mechanisms to bring traffickers to justice. Without such efforts, human trafficking will remain a dark chapter in Pakistan’s history, as well as in the global struggle to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
In conclusion, addressing human trafficking in Pakistan is a monumental challenge, but it is not insurmountable. By focusing on economic development, improving educational opportunities, and strengthening international cooperation, Pakistan can make significant strides in combating this heinous crime. However, to do so, the government must move beyond rhetoric and take concrete, sustained action to protect the most vulnerable members of society and ensure that the tragedies we have witnessed are never repeated.
