ANOTHER tragedy has struck Pakistani migrants seeking a better future. A boat capsizing off the Libyan coast has left at least 16 Pakistanis dead, with others missing or in detention. This disaster, following closely on the heels of last month’s deaths of a large number of Pakistanis at the hands of human traffickers, underscores the relentless peril faced by those seeking escape from economic hardship and instability at home. Pakistanis have, for years, risked treacherous journeys across the Mediterranean, lured by promises of prosperity in Europe. Many come from KP — in this case the majority belonged to Kurram — where unemployment, insecurity, and lack of economic opportunities force them into the hands of ruthless traffickers. These criminal networks prey on desperation, promising safe passage but delivering only exploitation, extortion, and grisly death. The state’s response to this crisis has been reactionary at best.

Dispatching embassy officials after each tragedy is necessary, but it does little to prevent future calamities. Pakistan must work closely with transit countries such as Libya, Turkey, and the UAE to establish stronger intelligence-sharing and border monitoring to intercept trafficking operations even before boats set sail. Moreover, the authorities must crack down on local recruiters enticing young men with false promises. Too often, these criminals face little accountability, despite countless reports of their involvement in forging documents, arranging illegal transport, and extorting families. The FIA must pursue traffickers with the same vigour as they do other organised crime rings. For this, both resources and political backing is required. Beyond enforcement, the root causes of migration must be addressed. We need targeted interventions in regions like Kurram. When young people see no future at home, no amount of warning about dangers abroad will deter them. The government must focus not just on job creation, but also skills development programmes aligned with domestic and legal international job opportunities. In addition, we need better awareness campaigns. Many victims fall prey to traffickers’ false promises because they lack information about legitimate alternatives. Our embassies abroad should be better equipped to assist Pakistanis in distress and to facilitate legal migration channels. Human trafficking is a national crisis. The state must act now to punish those who profit from this trade and create conditions where no Pakistani feels compelled to risk their life at sea.

Published in Dawn, February 12th, 2025