Pakistan faces a crisis with its migrants risking lives for illegal crossings to Europe, with numerous tragedies reported, including drownings and murders by traffickers. The government’s response has been largely ineffective, reflecting systemic issues in tackling human smuggling and the desperation driving these migrants. The successful diaspora’s affluent lifestyle fuels aspirations, pushing many towards hazardous migration routes despite risks.
In recent years, numerous tragic incidents involving Pakistani migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean have made headlines. Notably, this week, 16 Pakistanis drowned, following 13 casualties last month and 40 others who were murdered by human traffickers. This year’s statistics indicate over 100 lives lost thus far due to boat sinkings, with hundreds more rescued, many of whom remain hidden in host countries to try again.
Last June, an incident saw 300 Pakistanis perish, with minimal recovery of bodies. Other incidents included 54 fatalities in February and another 40 in December. Government actions typically include media displays of countermeasures against human smugglers, but these efforts have not effectively stemmed the tide of tragedies. Reports suggest purges within the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), yet the collusion between traffickers and agency personnel remains prevalent.
Data on undetected migrants successfully reaching their destinations is scarce. However, a significant rush is evidenced by the FIA offloading 2,500 passengers in January alone on suspicion of heading to Saudi Arabia for begging or illegal crossings to Europe. Social factors, particularly in Central Punjab districts, drive many young men and their families towards these perilous migration attempts.
Despite often hailing from less affluent backgrounds, many migrants invest significant sums to traffickers, emphasizing their desperation. This raises questions about their willingness to risk everything for such a hazardous journey. The affluent lifestyles of successful Pakistani diaspora, particularly in Scandinavian regions, serve as motivational stories, fostering the belief that success is achievable, despite the risks involved.
The exodus of thousands highlights state failures in addressing illegal migration and accountability for traffickers. Local communities are often aware of the traffickers operating within their midst, yet societal outrage is typically short-lived until another tragedy prompts fleeting responses from authorities.
The ongoing plight of Pakistani boat migrants underscores a severe societal and governmental failure. Despite awareness and some governmental action regarding human trafficking, tragic incidents continue unabated. The motivations behind this perilous migration are deeply rooted in socio-economic factors and the allure of perceived success, further complicating efforts to stem these dangerous journeys.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
