HomeHuman RightsGlobal Shame: Pakistani Nationals Behind Bars Worldwide

Global Shame: Pakistani Nationals Behind Bars Worldwide

The disclosure of 23,456 Pakistanis imprisoned abroad is a sobering reminder of the systemic failures that push individuals into such circumstances.

A recent disclosure by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in the Senate has revealed a troubling situation regarding the number of Pakistani citizens imprisoned in foreign countries. Responding to a question posed by Senator Dr. Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur, Dar shared that a total of 23,456 Pakistanis are currently detained in various prisons abroad. This revelation not only exposes the plight of these individuals but also raises critical concerns about the country’s ability to safeguard the rights of its citizens living or working outside Pakistan.

The prisoners are held for a wide range of offenses, including minor visa violations, overstays, theft, drug trafficking, and more severe crimes. While some may be guilty, many are victims of circumstances, exploitation, or lack of awareness about foreign laws. The sheer scale of these incarcerations underscores a systemic issue that calls for immediate and effective measures.

Saudi Arabia has long been a focal point for imprisoned Pakistanis, given the substantial number of workers and pilgrims who travel there each year. During the historic visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Pakistan in February 2019, then-Prime Minister Imran Khan made an impassioned appeal to the Crown Prince for the release of Pakistani prisoners languishing in Saudi jails. Responding to this heartfelt request, the Crown Prince announced a landmark agreement to release over 2,100 Pakistani prisoners, bringing immense relief and hope to countless families. This compassionate gesture by Saudi Arabia, initiated by Imran Khan’s special appeal, set a precedent for continued releases in subsequent years, ultimately securing the freedom of thousands of imprisoned Pakistanis.

A breakdown provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shows that 545 prisoners were released in 2019, followed by 892 in 2020, 916 in 2021, 1,331 in 2022, 1,394 in 2023, and 2,130 in 2024. While these numbers reflect progress in strengthening bilateral relations and addressing humanitarian concerns, the increasing trend of incarcerations points to underlying issues that remain unresolved. The reasons for such arrests often range from minor infractions to more severe charges, but they also highlight the socio-economic vulnerabilities that force individuals into precarious situations abroad.

Pakistan’s reputation has also suffered internationally due to reports of an increasing number of Pakistani beggars arrested in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the UAE. These nations have formally complained to Pakistan’s Foreign Office about what they describe as a growing “menace.” Many of these individuals travel on pilgrimage or visitor visas and overstay their permitted duration, resorting to begging as a means of survival. This recurring issue not only damages Pakistan’s image but also strains diplomatic ties with countries that host large numbers of Pakistani workers.

The growing number of prisoners and beggars abroad reflects deeper problems within Pakistan itself. Widespread poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities at home compel many to seek better prospects abroad, often at great personal risk. Many fall prey to unscrupulous agents or traffickers who promise lucrative jobs, only to abandon them in precarious situations. Others, unaware of the strict laws in host countries, inadvertently commit violations that result in imprisonment.

The weak support system for overseas Pakistanis further exacerbates the problem. Many embassies and consulates lack the resources or personnel to effectively assist citizens in distress. In some cases, families of detained individuals are left in the dark, with little to no information about their loved ones’ circumstances or legal proceedings. While some diplomatic efforts have led to prisoner releases, the scale of the issue demands more proactive and sustained action.

The embarrassment caused by the arrest of beggars adds another layer to the problem. The governments of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the UAE have repeatedly urged Pakistan to address the root causes of this issue, highlighting the need for stronger internal governance and social reforms. These arrests not only strain bilateral relations but also overshadow the contributions of millions of law-abiding Pakistani expatriates who work hard to support their families and contribute to Pakistan’s economy through remittances.

Addressing this crisis requires a multi-pronged approach. Domestically, the government must focus on creating economic opportunities and reducing poverty to curb the desperation that drives many to seek livelihoods abroad under uncertain conditions. Public awareness campaigns about the risks of illegal migration and the importance of understanding foreign laws are also essential. Additionally, Pakistan needs to strengthen its diplomatic and consular services to provide better support for its citizens overseas. Legal aid, timely communication with detainees and their families, and collaboration with foreign governments can go a long way in reducing the suffering of those imprisoned abroad.

The issue also underscores the importance of holding human traffickers and fraudulent agents accountable. Stronger enforcement of laws against illegal recruitment practices and trafficking can prevent many from falling victim to exploitation. At the same time, fostering bilateral agreements with host countries to ensure fair treatment of workers and timely resolution of legal cases is critical.

Pakistan’s leadership must treat this crisis as a priority, not just to protect the rights of its citizens but also to repair its international reputation. The rising number of prisoners and beggars abroad is a reflection of internal challenges that require long-term solutions. By addressing these issues at their roots, Pakistan can ensure that its citizens are no longer driven to desperate measures that tarnish their dignity and the nation’s image.

The disclosure of 23,456 Pakistanis imprisoned abroad is a sobering reminder of the systemic failures that push individuals into such circumstances. It is a call to action for the government, civil society, and citizens alike to work together in addressing the socio-economic and governance issues that lie at the heart of this crisis. Without immediate and effective measures, the plight of these individuals will continue, and Pakistan’s standing on the global stage will remain compromised.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.

 

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