Contrary to popular belief, acute majority of Pakistani youth (74%) desires to stay back in Pakistan: IPSOS Survey

ISLAMABAD, Nov 15 (SABAH): Non-governmental organization IPSOS in a survey has said that contrary to popular belief, acute majority of Pakistani youth (74%) desires to stay back in Pakistan, dismantling the prevailing propaganda without any evidence. However, privileged youth segment (18-24 age, upper SECs and federal capital residents) express a greater inclination towards leaving Pakistan.

According to the survey, the trend reveals that Pakistani youth (74%) are committed to their country and are NOT inclined to leave. A couple of years back, Oct 2022 saw a 32% consider leaving, this number plummeted to 23% by February 2024 amidst pre-election hope indicating stability towards the end of 2024

Among those who express a desire to relocate, the primary destinations are economically stable countries in close proximity to Pakistan, with Saudi Arabia (30%) and the UAE (20%) topping the list, nullifying the commonly believed myth of youth’s interest towards Western countries.

According to the survey, during the year 2015, highest number of Pakistanis(946,571) proceeded abroad for the purpose of employment.

During the year 2024 (September), 525,378 Pakistanis proceeded abroad for the purpose of employment.