Pakistan’s campaign against illegal migration has received international recognition, with authorities highlighting the country’s recent achievements in curbing human smuggling and irregular travel.
Speaking at a high-level meeting of the Global Alliance to Counter Migrant Smuggling in Vienna, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said Pakistan’s strategy against illegal migration is being regarded as an example for other countries.
He said illegal migration is not limited to one country or region but has become a global challenge that requires cooperation between governments, law enforcement agencies and international organisations.
The minister stressed that safe, legal and organised migration channels are essential to reducing illegal migration and preventing people from falling into the hands of human traffickers and smugglers.
During the meeting, representatives of the European Union praised Pakistan’s efforts to curb illegal migration and acknowledged the country’s recent progress in dismantling smuggling networks.
Participants also commended the work of Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency for intensifying operations against human traffickers and illegal migration facilitators.
According to official figures, attempts by Pakistani nationals to illegally enter European countries declined by nearly 47 per cent over the past year, reflecting stricter enforcement and increased border controls.
Authorities reported that more than 1,700 human smugglers were arrested during 2025 as part of a nationwide crackdown against organised criminal groups involved in migrant trafficking.
The FIA also significantly increased interceptions at airports and exit points across the country, preventing thousands of suspected illegal migrants from travelling abroad through fraudulent means.
International partners reportedly described Pakistan’s response to illegal migration as effective and comprehensive, while discussions are continuing on expanding cooperation and support for regional anti-smuggling efforts.
Every year, thousands of people seeking better economic opportunities become victims of criminal networks that promise quick and easy access to Europe through dangerous and unauthorised routes.
These journeys, commonly known as the “Dunki route”, often end in exploitation, financial losses, detention and, in many cases, tragic loss of life during hazardous land and sea crossings.
Recognising the growing threat posed by transnational criminal groups, Pakistani authorities introduced reforms aimed at strengthening border management and improving immigration controls.
Under the National Action Plan to Counter the Smuggling of Migrants for 2026-2030, authorities enhanced surveillance measures and upgraded screening procedures at major airports and border crossings.
The FIA also deployed advanced biometric systems and second-line screening mechanisms to identify suspicious travel patterns and fraudulent documentation.
Officials say these measures helped stop nearly 40,000 suspicious travellers from leaving the country during 2025 alone, highlighting Pakistan’s intensified efforts to combat illegal migration and human smuggling.
