Human Rights Commission of Pakistan Urges Action Against Human Smuggling
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has called for urgent attention to the severe human rights violations faced by individuals attempting to migrate illegally. These individuals often endure torture, extortion, abuse, blackmail, imprisonment, and even death.
Human Smuggling as a Human Rights Issue
The report emphasizes that human smuggling should be seen as a grave violation of human rights rather than a transnational crime. Currently, Pakistan is experiencing a strong economic crisis, forcing many, especially the youth, to seek better opportunities abroad through illegal routes known as ‘dunki.’ This term comes from a Punjabi idiom for going somewhere by jumping or leaping across like a donkey.
Migration Statistics
According to the report, up to 100,000 Pakistanis attempt to leave the country every year in search of better economic opportunities abroad, with Quetta being a favorable option for migrants attempting the Dunki route. It is estimated that approximately 80,000 to 100,000 irregular migrants leave Pakistan annually.
Risks and Exploitation
Irregular migrants face numerous risks, including unemployment, lack of opportunities, poverty, insecurity, and conflict. Human smugglers in Pakistan exploit these vulnerabilities, convincing individuals to embark on dangerous journeys. These smuggling networks are highly organized and structured, functioning similarly to criminal enterprises. Many former migrants become human smugglers themselves.
HRCP’s Recommendations
The HRCP has called for Pakistan to sign and ratify the Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea, and Air. Additionally, migrant-destination countries must uphold the rights of irregular migrants. The Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants Act 2018 needs to be reviewed for amendments to address abuses more effectively through a human rights-based approach.
Doubts Revealed
Human Rights Commission of Pakistan -: This is an organization in Pakistan that works to protect and promote human rights, which are basic rights and freedoms that everyone should have.
human smuggling -: This is when people are illegally moved from one country to another, often in dangerous conditions, usually to find better living conditions or jobs.
human rights violations -: These are actions that take away people’s basic rights and freedoms, like safety, freedom, and fair treatment.
transnational crime -: This is a crime that happens across different countries, like smuggling or trafficking.
economic hardships -: This means having a tough time financially, like not having enough money for basic needs like food, shelter, and education.
dunki -: This is a term used in Pakistan to describe illegal and dangerous ways people use to migrate to other countries, often involving human smugglers.
legal reforms -: These are changes or improvements made to laws to make them better or fairer.
international cooperation -: This means different countries working together to solve problems or achieve common goals.