The Rising Tide of Unemployment in Pakistan:
Today's most severe problem in Pakistan is unemployment. The increasing rate of unemployment is much more disturbing for Pakistan. Now I should cut to the chase; the question is, what is the reason for the rapid unemployment in Pakistan, and why is this issue so prevalent here compared to developed countries?
Why Pakistan Faces a Unique Unemployment Challenge:
People who are doing jobs are not satisfied. In their jobs, they are only burning the midnight oil. There are many causes of unemployment in Pakistan: rapid population growth, lack of skills, corruption and mismanagement, high energy prices, over-reliance on agriculture, brain drain, security concerns, inadequate infrastructure, flawed government policies, and global economic trends.
Major Causes Behind Pakistan’s Unemployment Crisis:
Due to these risks, the unemployment rate is increasing very quickly. The people are escaping from Pakistan legally and illegally, which is a troubling trend.
Brain Drain: Why Pakistan's Bright Minds are Fleeing:
It is deeply saddening that the brilliant minds of Pakistan, who could help the country progress by leaps and bounds, are leaving. It’s an unlucky streak for Pakistan that intellectual giants are escaping due to a lack of job opportunities. They seek a better lifestyle abroad.
Illegal Migration: A Dangerous Escape from Joblessness:
Some of them resort to illegal means to migrate. The illegal ways include human smuggling or trafficking, using fake travel documents, stowing away on ships and planes, or crossing borders illegally. Annually, many people die due to these risks.
The Tragic Consequences of Seeking Opportunities Abroad:
Some of these individuals are the sole providers for their families. They go abroad with the hope of providing a better lifestyle for their loved ones, but all their efforts are in vain when they die tragically during illegal migration attempts.
A Plea to the Government: Save Our Talent, Create Jobs:
It is a humble request to our present government to stop these shining stars from dying or going abroad. We need ample opportunities to be created in Pakistan to fulfill their needs and allow our talented minds to thrive at home.
Note: ISLAMABAD: As many as 4.5 million individuals are unemployed in the country, with the youth aged 15-24 having the highest unemployment rate of 11.1 per cent, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2023-24 released on Tuesday.
GULSHER HASHMI
Lahore, Pakistan.
