As the sun sets on 2023, Pakistan finds itself at a crucial crossroads, marked by an exodus indicative of economic hardship and political uncertainty. This movement is not a mere coincidence. It has been caused by a convergence of several factors such as economic downturn, political turbulence, security apprehensions and environmental vulnerabilities.

In 2023, the national economy faced notable challenges, including currency devaluation, dwindling foreign exchange reserves and a growing inflationary crisis. In August, the rupee hit an unprecedented low against the US dollar, surpassing the Rs 300. The fall signaled broad economic uncertainties.

Simultaneously, foreign exchange reserves, a vital measure of economic resilience, were at a precarious $3.1 billion in January. This limited the government’s ability to stabilise the currency and meet international obligations. Adding to these challenges, there was a staggering 38 percent year-on-year inflation in May, exacerbating the existing cost-of-living crisis, making everyday essentials increasingly unaffordable and eroding the purchasing power of the average citizen.

The escalating inflationary pressure had a profound impact on the economy, affecting households and job markets alike. This economic strain led to a notable migration trend, with statistics from the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment revealing that around 805,088 Pakistanis left the country until November 2023 to explore job opportunities abroad. The number encompassed a diverse range of individuals, including 21,157 highly qualified, 43,342 highly skilled, 295,080 skilled, 82,127 semi-skilled and 363,382 unskilled workers.

Compared to the previous year, the emigration figure is slightly lower. 832,000 Pakistanis had left the country during the same period last year, representing the highest number since 2016. It’s important to note that the official emigration numbers exclude those who moved abroad in pursuit of education. Faced with economic uncertainty, these individuals sought opportunities overseas as a pragmatic response, reflecting the pursuit of a more stable and prosperous future amid the economic turbulence of 2023.

The allure of superior educational and economic prospects abroad emerged as a compelling force driving migration. The devaluation of the Pakistani currency didn’t just impact local livelihoods; it also strained the ability to support children studying overseas. The challenges faced by Pakistani international students are substantial, particularly concerning the high cost of education in sought-after destinations like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.

This situation has prompted a shift in aspirations among students and professionals, redirecting their focus toward nations that offer better opportunities. More individuals are drawn to countries providing pathways to residency or citizenship for international students contributing to the local economy. For Pakistani students, the prospect of a brighter future and an elevated quality of life has become a compelling force, driving them to overcome financial obstacles as 2023 concludes.

The persisting threat of terrorism posed a significant and continuous challenge throughout the year, showcasing a considerable and alarming 67 percent increase compared to the preceding year. This surge in terrorist activities has created a widespread and palpable sense of insecurity that looms over Pakistan. The suicide bombings were particularly disturbing. These not only claimed lives but also instilled deep-seated fear in the target communities.

Amidst this atmosphere of heightened insecurity, the extent to which security concerns directly influence migration remains unclear. However, the pervasive sense of instability, compounded by the constant threat of terrorism, takes a toll on various aspects of daily life. This environment of uncertainty and unrest may lead many individuals to lean towards exploring opportunities in more stable overseas destinations. Seeking an escape from the challenges in their homeland, more individuals might find solace in the prospect of a more secure and predictable future beyond Pakistan’s borders.

The political landscape during the year was characterised by a continuous power struggle between political parties and the establishment. This raised concerns about the fairness of the political process.

Faced with a turbulent political climate and restricted economic opportunities, the prospect of studying and working abroad emerges as an attractive alternative for a more secure and prosperous future. The combination of these challenges creates an environment where the pursuit of a better life through migration becomes a compelling option for individuals seeking stability and improved opportunities beyond national borders.

About 6.3 million Pakistanis currently live in other countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Europe, Canada and the United States. In this context, migration remains an important aspect of policy discussion in Pakistan, with discussions on emigration often overshadowing issues related to immigration. The challenges in Pakistan’s migration system, compounded by the absence of a national emigration policy and political instability, have significant implications for the rights and challenges of overseas Pakistanis. The uncertainty resulting from political upheaval not only creates a power vacuum but also contributes to a lack of policy coordination.

In such an environment, Overseas Pakistanis face additional challenges, including potential disruptions to their rights, as the government struggles to provide a stable framework for their protection and welfare. The ongoing efforts to draft the first national policy for overseas Pakistanis become crucial in addressing these challenges, ensuring transparency in migration processes, protection of migrants’ rights and facilitation of their return.

The challenges leading to mass migration from Pakistan in 2023 necessitate a comprehensive set of policy recommendations. The economic reforms should focus on stabilising the currency, bolstering foreign reserves and implementing effective inflation control measures. Concurrently, the government should prioritise initiatives that stimulate job creation and skill development to address the escalating unemployment crisis, providing citizens with viable opportunities within the country.

In the education sector, policy interventions should aim at enhancing accessibility and quality through scholarships, collaborative programmes with international institutions and the creation of a conducive environment for research and innovation. Tackling security concerns requires a multifaceted approach involving improved intelligence coordination, community-based anti-radicalisation efforts and strategic measures to curb terrorist threats.

On the political front, efforts should be directed towards fostering political stability through inclusive dialogue and strengthening democratic institutions. Establishing a national emigration policy to regulate migration, protect the rights of overseas Pakistanis and ensure transparent and efficient migration processes is also necessary.

Environmental vulnerabilities should be addressed through international collaboration and sustainable development practices.

To address mass migration, a holistic policy framework is needed. This involves comprehensively addressing the root causes and fostering a stable, secure and prosperous future within Pakistan.

The writer is a former social development practitioner with extensive community-engagement experience in Pakistan. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in higher education at University of Ohio in the United States.