The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis has expressed grave concerns regarding the declining standards and challenges faced by Pakistani workers in the Gulf region. During a meeting chaired by Senator Zeeshan Khanzada, it was revealed that Gulf employers are increasingly preferring workers from other countries, notably Bangladesh, over Pakistan.
Dr. Arshad Mahmood, Secretary of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, provided a stark overview of the situation. He cited a concerning statistic that 50 per cent of the crime rate among the UAE labour force is attributed to Pakistanis. Moreover, UAE authorities have raised issues about inappropriate behaviour by some Pakistanis, including incidents of filming women without consent in Dubai.
The committee was informed that despite advancements in technology, a substantial portion of the Pakistani labour force remains unskilled. This lack of skill development and resources has led to a significant decline in overseas employment opportunities for Pakistanis. Dr. Mahmood pointed out that the skilled labour force from Bangladesh serves as a benchmark, suggesting that Pakistan needs to enhance its skill development programmes to remain competitive.
The Pakistani diaspora, numbering around 10.7 million, is predominantly based in countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, the US, UK, and Canada. However, governments of UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait have voiced reservations regarding various issues associated with Pakistani workers.
The committee was also briefed on the alarming presence of organised gangs of Pakistani beggars operating in Iraq and Saudi Arabia, often entering these countries on Umrah visas. Saudi authorities reported that 90pc of all beggars arrested in the country were Pakistanis.
Senator Nasir Abbas raised concerns about the plight of Pakistanis living illegally in Iraq, who often face harsh conditions. He questioned the ministry’s efforts in addressing their needs and ensuring their welfare.
Senator Zeeshan Khanzada highlighted the issue of illegal Pakistani immigrants in Italy, who often disguise their nationality while the Pakistan embassy identifies them as Pakistani citizens. He urged the ministry to take proactive measures to assist these individuals and clarify their status. The committee stressed the need for the government to recognise and harness the potential of the Pakistani diaspora.
