International Migrants Day – 18 December
Recognizing the Opportunities of Migration and the Contributions of Migrants
International Migrants Day provides us with an important opportunity to pay tribute to the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants and overseas communities living around the world. It also highlights the reality that migration has become increasingly complex and challenging in today’s world.
Across different regions of the world:
•Wars and conflicts
•Climate change–related natural disasters
•Economic pressures and unemployment
are forcing millions of people to leave their homes, cities, and countries in search of safety and better employment opportunities.
Over the past year:
•The number of internally displaced people reached record levels
•Humanitarian needs increased significantly
•The number of migrants who lost their lives during migration rose to the highest level in history
These are deeply concerning realities. However, alongside these challenges, there are also powerful stories of resilience, progress, and hope.
When migration is managed in a safe and orderly manner, it can be extremely beneficial for societies. Migrants:
•Play a vital role in labour markets
•Help address skills shortages
•Promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and industrial growth
•Support economic balance in countries with aging populations
In addition, overseas Pakistanis support their families and strengthen the national economy through remittances.
The Importance of Safe and Regular Migration
Evidence clearly shows that when migration is:
•Safe
•Legal
•Strategically managed
It becomes beneficial for all stakeholders. It not only protects the rights of migrants but also contributes to the development and prosperity of both host countries and countries of origin.
Safe and organized overseas employment remains a top priority of the Government of Pakistan. Approximately 12 million Pakistanis are working abroad and contributing significantly to the national economy through remittances. The government is taking effective measures to protect the rights of migrants and overseas Pakistanis, while skill development programs are creating better overseas employment opportunities for Pakistani youth.
Under the strong military leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir and the vision and foresight of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the dignity and global standing of Pakistan have improved, encouraging investors to turn toward Pakistan. Today, Pakistan is recognized internationally as a dignified, brave, and peaceful nation.
Pakistan is also among the countries that have provided protection and facilities to the largest number of refugees in the world, and overseas Pakistanis continue to be cared for and valued at home.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan is moving steadily toward progress, with new employment opportunities being created across the country.
On this occasion, overseas Pakistanis in Europe and the United Kingdom organized various events to mark Overseas Day and International Migrants Day. The Pak Media Center, along with Malik Sharjeel Awan, a prominent figure associated with leading think tanks in the Netherlands, played an active role in organizing programs across Europe aimed at strengthening unity between Pakistan and its overseas communities.
Through these initiatives, a clear message was conveyed that Pakistanis living abroad are united and remain fully committed to supporting their homeland. Overseas Pakistanis highlighted their continued contribution to Pakistan’s stability through remittances, which play a vital role in strengthening the national economy.
Overseas Pakistanis collectively pledged that they will continue to stand together to strengthen Pakistan and contribute to its long-term prosperity.
On this Overseas Day, we reaffirm our commitment that:
•Overseas Pakistanis, wherever they may be, will continue to support Pakistan through remittances
•Together, we will work to build a strong, prosperous, and self-reliant Pakistan
Overseas Pakistanis are a valuable asset of our nation.