Editorial
The Henley Passport Index 2024, a significant benchmark in global mobility, has once again ranked Pakistan’s passport among the least powerful, occupying the 100th spot out of 103 countries. This places Pakistan in an unfavorable position, tied with Yemen and just ahead of Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. In contrast, Singapore has retained its status as the country with the most powerful passport, offering visa-free access to 195 destinations, while other countries like France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain closely follow suit, enjoying access to 192 destinations. The United Kingdom secured the fourth position with access to 190 countries. The Henley Passport Index, produced by Henley & Partners, a global citizenship and residence advisory firm based in London, utilizes exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association to monitor global travel privileges, encompassing 199 passports and 227 travel destinations.
Amidst this, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant strides, securing the 9th position in the Henley Passport Index 2024, a notable jump from its 11th place earlier in the year. The UAE now shares this spot with Lithuania and Estonia, allowing passport holders visa-free access to 185 countries. This progress is a testament to the UAE’s growing global influence and its commitment to facilitating international travel. Canada and the United States have also secured commendable positions, with Canada in 7th place with access to 187 countries, and the United States in 8th place with a mobility score of 186, which is a measure of the number of countries a passport holder can visit without a visa or with visa on arrival. On the other hand, India, Tajikistan, and Senegal share the 82nd spot, providing visa-free access to 58 countries. Bahrain, Oman, and China hold the 57th, 58th, and 59th positions, respectively.
Pl subscribe to the YouTube channel of republicpolicy.com
Pakistan should improve the credibility of its passport to enhance global mobility and opportunities for its citizens by developing its economy and political stability. A more powerful passport would allow Pakistanis to travel to a greater number of countries without the need for a visa or with a visa on arrival, facilitating easier business travel, tourism, and educational opportunities. This would not only benefit individuals but also contribute to the overall growth and development of the country by fostering international cooperation and exchange of ideas. Strengthening the passport’s standing in the Henley Passport Index would improve Pakistan’s global image and potentially open up new avenues for trade, investment, and diplomatic relations.
