Thousands of Pakistanis are taking their lives into their own hands to migrate to Europe, specifically Italy, out of a combination of economic instability, political unrest, and individual insecurity.
Despite the risks, including drowning and exploitation at the hands of smugglers, few feel they have no choice but to undertake these dangerous trips.
Rising Numbers, Rising Risks
Italy is now a top destination for Pakistani immigrants. In 2023, Pakistan made up around 10% of migrants into Italy, more than double the 3% of the previous year. This increase comes with deteriorating conditions in Pakistan, which has encouraged more to look elsewhere for asylum.
The journeys undertaken are perilous. Most migrants travel via Iran and Turkey before trying to make the crossing in the Mediterranean Sea. Others take the Central Mediterranean route from Libya, Tunisia, or Egypt.
These crossings tend to be in overcrowded and unsuitable boats, resulting in the loss of several lives. In June 2023, a vessel with approximately 750 migrants, of which more than 200 were Pakistani, sank off the Greek coast, recording one of the most fatal shipwrecks in the Mediterranean Sea.
A similar incident also took place in December 2024, when media reported that a wooden boat carrying migrants capsized off the island of Gavdos in southern Greece. The FIA found many Pakistani victims near the site of the incident.
Root Causes of Migration
Few decisions are made light-headed. Surveys show that 54% of Pakistani migrants identify violence, insecurity, and conflict as major drivers. Another 36% point to a lack of rights and freedom, and 33% refer to economic factors.
The floods in Pakistan in 2022 also further compounded these challenges, displacing millions and eliminating livelihoods.
For most, migration is the only hope. Most migrants feel they have no choice but to depart their home country in pursuit of a better life.
The Human Cost
The European journey is dangerous. Migrants are vulnerable to human traffickers who take advantage of their desperation. In January 2025, Moroccan police rescued 22 Pakistani men from a stranded vessel in the Atlantic Ocean.
Sadly, at least 43 others died of hunger, dehydration, and abuse by smugglers.
Survivors describe terrible experiences, such as being packed below deck, where survival chances in the event of capsizing are low. This happened during the June 2023 disaster near Greece, where most Pakistanis were allegedly trapped below deck.
Seeking Solutions
The rising tide of Pakistani migrants confirms the necessity for an all-encompassing resolution. The elimination of the underlying causes of migration, including economic uncertainty and insecurity, is important.
International collaboration is also necessary to fight human trafficking and offer safe, legal avenues for migration.
Unless coordinated action is taken, the senseless loss of life will persist, and the urgency behind Pakistanis risking everything for a brighter tomorrow will not be attended to.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates, and