LURCHING from one crisis to the next, the Pakistani state has been consistent in failing its vulnerable citizens. According to reports, in the latest tragedy at sea, at least 39 Pakistanis out of 83 illegal migrants, drowned after their boat capsized off a Greek island — a chilling reminder of the 262 Pakistanis who drowned in the same waters last year. The incident has set a predictable chain reaction in motion: the news cycle spins around another tragedy, the FIA registers fresh cases against those suspected of trafficking people from Punjab to Libya and the prime minister demands a report on instances of human trafficking in Pakistan. The prime minister was informed that out of the 174 people accused of human trafficking only four were convicted. But these actions are hardly enough to plug the disturbing scale of human trade from the country.

We cannot be timid about dismantling a ruthless human trafficking industry that dupes the indigent to make a pretty penny, particularly in times of acute unemployment, poverty, absence of opportunities and socioeconomic insecurity. This coercive curse, which includes bonded labour, sexual exploitation and using the youth and children as drug mules, continues to flourish because of the shortsighted and uncaring approach of the authorities. It is way past time to change the narrative whereby migrants are seen as victims, and not culprits, enforce the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act, 2018, and Integrated Border Management System as well as establish technological assistance in deterring migrant smuggling rings. Greater accountability of the authorities tasked with dismantling these rings is also essential to make sure that complicit elements are weeded out. For improved protection and to honour international humanitarian laws, the government must ensure the victims are documented. Sadly, the government is likely to overlook such measures until it realises the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the poor.

Published in Dawn, December 20th, 2024