“Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day."
– Dalai Lama

Brain Drain in Pakistan: An ethical issue plaguing Pakistan’s youth
Pakistan is facing an unprecedented brain drain, where its most skilled and educated individuals are fleeing the country in search of better opportunities and brighter future and better quality of life. Over 700000 Pakistanis left the country seeking for job opportunities in 2024, as per the Bureau of Immigration and Overseas Employment. It not only raises questions about the government’s responsibility towards its people but also questions about the responsibility of individuals to their homeland. According to the international migration report 2022, Pakistan is in the seventh position among the leading countries of migrant origin. This ethical issue raised from the root causes like; economic instability, security concerns, unemployment, low wages, lack of career growth, corruption, social injustice etc. Pakistan’s economy is struggling, and the job market is saturated, leaving few opportunities for youngsters to pursue their careers. According to survey, 62% of people in Pakistan are unemployed. Country’s infrastructure, including healthcare, transportation, and energy, is in shambles, it’s so difficult for people to live and work comfortably. Widespread corruption and mismanagement have eroded trust in institutions, making it difficult for youngsters to see a future in Pakistan. Ineffective and inefficient governance has led to a lack of clear policies and vision loss the willingness of people to stay in Pakistan. According to UNESCO Pakistan spends 2.5% of it’s GDP on education which is one of the lowest rate in the world. Pakistan’s economy is not innovative, and the country is not producing enough entrepreneurs, startups, and innovative businesses. Loss of intellectual capital means depletion of skilled workforce. This shortage of skilled professionals in key sectors which is critical for Pakistan’s development.

Pakistan’s government should have to address this ethical challenge that threatens its future growth and development. To address the issue of brain drain, government and private sector can work together to support innovative businesses with target of creating 10000 new jobs in the next five years and stimulate economic growth through initiatives like entrepreneurship programs, vocational training. Invest in upgrading healthcare, transportation, and energy infrastructure to make Pakistan a more attractive place to live and work. To combat corruption and mismanagement, Implement reforms to increase transparency and accountability, and ensure that institutions are merit-based and effective. Implement effective and efficient governance structures, and ensure that policies are clear, consistent, and inclusive. Government of Pakistan should also contribute to invest in education infrastructure and technology, update curricula to meet global standard.

In short, brain drain is a pressing ethical issue in Pakistan that requires immediate attention. By addressing the root causes of brain drain and implementing solutions to create opportunities, improve infrastructure, increase resources, combat corruption, enhance security, improve governance, expand access to technology, promote social equality, foster innovation, and address brain drain in key sectors, Pakistan can stem the flow of its most talented youngsters and build a brighter future for itself. It is essential for youngsters to understand the importance of contributing to their country’s development and to recognize that their skills and talents are needed in Pakistan. By working together, we can create a Pakistan that is prosperous, progressive, and proud of its youth.
Khizra Jahan,
Jinnah university for women, Karachi