What is the Future of
Overseas Employment in Pakistan?

Overseas, Employment, Pakistan, Future
Overseas employment has been a
critical driver for Pakistan's economy, providing significant opportunities for
its workforce and contributing to national economic stability through
remittances. As the global landscape continues to evolve, the future of
overseas employment for Pakistanis looks promising, yet challenges remain.
Current Trends
In recent years, Pakistan has seen
substantial growth in overseas employment. Key developments include:
In 2024, 600 Pakistani professionals
embarked on international careers under government-facilitated agreements.
Job opportunities have
expanded in sectors like healthcare, engineering, ICT, hospitality,
finance, and construction.
Government Initiatives
The Pakistani government has been
proactive in securing overseas employment opportunities through strategic
agreements with global partners. Key efforts include:
Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human
Resource Development along with the Bureau of Emigration
& Overseas Employment playing pivotal roles.
Recent agreements
resulting in thousands of interviews and the selection of hundreds of
candidates for international roles.
Role of Overseas Employment Promoters
The Pakistan Overseas Employment
Promoters Association (POEPA) represents over 4,700 licensed promoters across
the country. Their contributions include:
Facilitating employment abroad,
particularly in the Gulf region.
Collaborating with government bodies to
ensure compliance and protect the rights of Pakistani workers abroad.
Sending millions of Pakistanis abroad,
significantly boosting the economy through remittances.
Economic Impact
Remittances from overseas Pakistanis
are a cornerstone of the country's economy. Their impact includes:
Reducing the trade deficit and
providing a stable source of foreign exchange.
In 2023, remittances contributed over
$30 billion to the national exchequer.
Continuous engagement with
countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and several European nations
to increase these contributions further.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the future looks promising, several
challenges need addressing:
Protecting the rights of overseas workers
remains paramount.
Streamlining processes,
reducing illegal recruitment, and enhancing the skills of Pakistani
workers to meet international standards.
Conclusion
The future of overseas employment in
Pakistan is bright, with ongoing efforts to expand opportunities and improve
conditions for Pakistani workers abroad. The government's proactive strategies,
combined with the efforts of organizations like POEPA, are paving the way for
more robust and secure employment avenues. These efforts not only enhance the
livelihoods of individual workers but also contribute significantly to the
country's economic growth.
By continuing to:
Forge strategic international
partnerships
Focus on skill development
Pakistan can ensure a steady rise in
overseas employment, benefiting both the workers and the nation's economy.