Overseas Pakistanis:
Overseas individuals refer to those who reside outside their native country for various reasons, such as career prospects or personal interests. As stated by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development and research, there are approximately 9-11 Million Pakistanis living around the world.  The term ‘Overseas Pakistanis’ indicates those Pakistanis who reside outside of Pakistan, including those inhabitants who have migrated to another country and people living abroad of Pakistani heritage. The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs reports that Pakistan has the 6th largest diaspora in the world, with a significant presence in developed countries such as the U.K., U.A.E., U.S., India, China, and Japan.
Reasons:
The primary reason behind this diaspora is the availability of opportunities in these countries, as Pakistan has often failed to provide its citizens with adequate chances and favorable circumstances. Consequently, many individuals have opted to migrate in pursuit of shaping their own destinies. However, this process is not without its complexities. Furthermore, some individuals choose to go abroad for higher education due to the superior quality and standards of education offered in other countries, along with the availability of scholarships.
Benefits:
Overseas Pakistanis are privileged to enjoy numerous significant advantages and benefits, including the opportunity to earn a substantial salary, immerse themselves in diverse cultures, forge connections with new individuals, acquire valuable skills, embrace a completely novel and invigorating environment, and avail themselves of social and security benefits, among others.
Challenges:
Whereas, overseas individuals may also face some challenges like adapting to a new culture and environment, language barriers, differing religious values, separation from loved ones, difficulties in safeguarding their belongings, varying time zones, and more.
Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF):
Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) provides free ambulance service for transportation of the dead bodies of overseas Pakistanis. It has also introduced a Financial Aid Scheme for overseas Pakistanis. Housing projects for these people and aid in Education are also the objectives of OPF.
The emigration of young individuals to foreign countries poses a significant challenge for Pakistan as it results in the loss of a substantial portion of its youth population, who are crucial for the country’s future development. Consequently, it is imperative for the government to tackle this issue and implement impactful strategies to assist its citizens.
