Pakistan’s economic crisis, deepened by the Covid-19-induced lockdowns, supply chain disruptions following the Russia-Ukraine war and a persistently unstable political environment, has made survival increasingly difficult for the average citizen. For many, the dream of a stable future within the country has turned into a nightmare of economic despair. This suffocating reality has pushed countless Pakistanis to seek opportunities abroad -- often at great personal risk. In recent years, the headlines have been filled with tragic news of boats carrying migrants capsizing, leading to the loss of hundreds of lives. These heartbreaking incidents expose the desperation of people willing to risk their lives in pursuit of a better future. Now, another shocking story has emerged: over 500 young Pakistanis, including women and educated individuals, were lured into forced labour in Myanmar under false pretences. These individuals had unwittingly responded to fake job advertisements online, hoping to secure employment in Thailand. Instead, they were trafficked across the border into Myanmar, where their passports were confiscated, and they were coerced into participating in illegal activities, such as credit card fraud, online scams and cryptocurrency fraud.
In an attempt to escape, eleven of these individuals tried to swim across a river back to Thailand. Tragically, five of them drowned, while the other six managed to reach
h Thailand, where they were rescued by the Pakistani embassy. This horrifying episode is the latest manifestation of the growing desperation among Pakistanis and the increasing prevalence of human trafficking networks exploiting their plight. Human trafficking mafias have seized upon people's desperation, preying on vulnerable individuals seeking a way out. These traffickers promise decent jobs abroad but instead subject their victims to inhumane conditions, forced labour and abuse. Many have their passports confiscated, making escape nearly impossible. Despite multiple tragedies, the Pakistani government has over the years failed to take sufficient action to combat this crisis. It is only recently that some effort has been made to counter what looks like a very well-entrenched trafficking system. Authorities have placed travel restrictions on over 52,000 individuals -- including those deported for illegal migration, trafficking and other offences -- but such measures are insufficient. The Myanmar case shows just how easily traffickers continue to deceive people through fraudulent online job postings.
The Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) cybercrime unit must take a more proactive role in identifying and shutting down social media accounts and websites promoting fake job opportunities. Beyond just monitoring airports and borders, a coordinated national effort is needed to educate citizens about the dangers of human trafficking. Awareness campaigns in schools, colleges and rural areas could help prevent more people from falling victim to these schemes. The onus essentially is on the government, which has failed to provide economic stability and opportunities for its citizens. Without structural reforms and policies that prioritise job creation, wage growth and economic inclusivity, Pakistan will continue to see its people flee -- whether through legal or illegal means. Policies that empower people, protect workers and foster economic growth must take precedence. How many more of our own need to drown in the seas or become virtual slaves in other countries before the state and government take notice?