Over 70% of Pakistan's youth want to stay in their country: survey

A recent survey revelaed that 74% of Pakistanis expressed their desire to remain in the country and contribute to its progress despite facing unprecedented challenges, including political instability, economic uncertainty, high inflation, and scarce job opportunities.

A survey conducted in the last week of September included over 1600 participants aged 18 to 34. Only 26% of participants indicated they would consider leaving if given the opportunity. 

Among those considering migration, the majority preferred destinations in the Middle East. Of the 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.

Moreover, the survey revealed that the privileged class, particularly in Islamabad, showed a higher inclination to leave Pakistan, with 46% of youth in the federal capital being on top of the list, making it the highest percentage among all regions in Pakistan.

Similarly, 35% of individuals belong to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 27% from Punjab, 21% from Balochistan, and 20% from Sindh are intended to move abroad. 

In terms of status, 36% of youth from the upper middle and privileged class expressed plans to permanently settle abroad.

In contrast, 28% from the middle class and 23% from the unprivileged class are willing to leave the country and settle in developed countries.