A recent survey revealed that 74% of Pakistanis expressed their intention to stay in the country and contribute to its development, despite facing significant challenges such as political instability, economic uncertainty, high inflation, and limited job opportunities.
The survey, conducted in the last week of September, included over 1,600 participants aged 18 to 34. Only 26% of respondents indicated they would consider leaving the country if given the chance.
Among those contemplating migration, most preferred destinations in the Middle East. Of these respondents, 30% aimed to move to Saudi Arabia, 20% to Dubai, 9% to the United Kingdom, 8% to Canada, 8% to the United States, 5% to Europe, 3% to Australia, 2% to Turkey, 2% to Qatar, 2% to Italy, and 1% to Germany.
The survey also highlighted that the privileged class, particularly in Islamabad, showed a higher tendency to emigrate. In the federal capital, 46% of the youth expressed a desire to leave, the highest percentage among all regions in Pakistan.
Additionally, 35% of respondents from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 27% from Punjab, 21% from Balochistan, and 20% from Sindh expressed similar intentions to move abroad.
In terms of socioeconomic status, 36% of youth from the upper middle and privileged classes indicated plans to permanently settle overseas.