The increasing numbers of human trafficking, migrant smuggling and related tragedies has pushed forward Pakistan to ramp up its dedications to nip the evil in the bud. Authorities are deciding to adopt a surveillance approach which will be focused on travelers between the ages of 15 and 40 who are heading toward Europe, as this demographic is frequently exploited by smuggling networks.
New Surveillance Measures
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has instructed its airport staff to closely monitor and profile passengers bound for approximately 15 countries identified as key transit points for smuggling. This move comes in response to numerous recent incidents where young Pakistanis drowned while attempting perilous sea routes, such as the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
The Smuggling Routes
Smugglers often leverage complex routes spanning Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, targeting hopeful migrants seeking better opportunities in Europe. Common transit countries include:
• Asia: Iran, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Iraq.
• Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Egypt.
• Africa: Libya, Mauritania, Senegal, Kenya.
• Others: Azerbaijan, Russia.
The Atlantic route to the Canary Islands has gained notoriety as a deadly alternative following stricter control on traditional Mediterranean pathways. While some see the route as faster due to initial plane transfers, the final sea leg remains treacherous, with overcrowded boats and harsh weather conditions often leading to disaster.
Read more: Over 40 Pakistanis lost their lives in their attempts to reach Spain by boat
Tragic Outcomes
In recent years, devastating incidents have highlighted the human cost of smuggling:
• Mauritania Boat Capsize (2024): Over 40 Pakistanis drowned en route to the Canary Islands. Survivors reported severe overcrowding and inhumane conditions aboard the vessel.
• Greek Shipwreck (June 2023): Approximately 350 Pakistanis were among the victims of a sinking off the Greek coast, marking one of the deadliest Mediterranean tragedies.
The Role of Local Smugglers
Migrant smuggling in Pakistan often begins with local agents who collaborate with global trafficking networks. These agents exploit vulnerable families by promising better futures for their loved ones abroad. Families, desperate for financial stability, sell property or pay exorbitant sums—sometimes as high as 16,000 euros—to facilitate the journey.
The Push Factors
Financial problems and the glittering hope to go abroad for better employments is key factor that is playing its role for many young Pakistanis to risk dangerous migration routes. However, the reality often falls far short of expectations, with many losing their lives or being stranded in unfamiliar territories.
Addressing the Crisis
In addition to surveillance, Pakistan plans to intensify its crackdown on smuggling networks. This includes:
• Increasing cooperation with international agencies.
• Raising awareness among families about the dangers of illegal migration.
• Strengthening border control measures and regulations.
Organizations like Caminando Fronteras estimate that nearly 9,700 people went missing or died on the Atlantic route in 2023 alone, branding it the world’s deadliest migration path. Pakistan’s recent initiatives aim to mitigate these tragedies and protect its citizens from the perils of illegal migration.
By addressing both the systemic issues and the exploitative practices of smuggling networks, authorities hope to prevent further loss of life and safeguard the future of vulnerable individuals.