Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken decisive action to address the growing concern of passengers being offloaded from flights at Pakistani airports. Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, announced on Monday that the PM has ordered the formation of a special committee to investigate these incidents and ensure safe migration for citizens.
Government Takes Action on Travel Hurdles
Chaudhry Salik Hussain revealed that numerous reports have surfaced in recent months where travelers possessing complete and valid documentation, including visas, were still prevented from boarding their flights. This crackdown follows increased vigilance after the 2024 Greece boat tragedy, which claimed several Pakistani lives and prompted a nationwide drive against human smuggling networks.
The newly formed committee is tasked with a critical mission: to prepare concrete recommendations aimed at guaranteeing the safe migration of people. The minister stated that the committee's first meeting is scheduled for this week, with a clear deadline to formulate actionable proposals by the end of January 2025.
Clarifications and Commemorations on Migration
The issue of offloading has seen varying explanations from authorities. Last month, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi asserted during a visit to Islamabad Airport that no passenger with genuine documents should be barred from travel. Earlier, in November, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) clarified that offloading only occurred when documents were invalid or when individuals were suspected of collaborating with migrant smugglers.
This government initiative coincided with Pakistan's commemoration of International Migrants Day 2025, which placed a strong emphasis on skills, student mobility, and safe migration pathways. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) led a major youth-focused event at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) in Islamabad.
Youth at the Forefront of Migration Dialogue
The IOM event gathered hundreds of university students, diplomats, government officials, and development partners. The program highlighted the pivotal role of young Pakistanis in shaping the nation's migration future, focusing on responsible migration, countering digital misinformation, and creating ethical opportunities.
A powerful panel discussion and an original theater performance by Theater Wallay, inspired by real migrant experiences, underscored the themes of aspiration and resilience. Panelists, including Ms. Farwa Abbas from the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and student migrant Minha Rana, explored ways to promote safe choices and build public trust through accurate information.
IOM Pakistan Chief of Mission, Ms. Mio Sato, emphasized, "Migration is a story of people, possibilities, and progress." She stressed that access to accurate information and skills-based opportunities empowers youth to make safe, transformative choices. Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain praised IOM's support and highlighted the need to expand skills mobility and ethical recruitment to harness the talent of young Pakistanis for global development.
