77% youth want to live in Pakistan despite economic hardships: survey

Amidst political uncertainty and economic challenges, a widespread perception exists in Pakistani society that young individuals readily seek opportunities abroad for better career prospects. However, a recent Voice of America (VOA) survey revealed intriguing statistics that counter this prevailing trend.

The latest statistics stem from the "Political Participation Landscape of Pakistani Youth" survey conducted by Ipsos for VOA.

The survey found that a significant majority (74%) of respondents trust the armed forces.

According to VOA's survey, young people aged 18-34 were also asked about their desire to move abroad.

The survey found that 3 out of 4 young people (77%) preferred to stay in their own country, while 23% expressed a desire to live abroad.

The survey highlighted that men were more likely to express a desire to live abroad (26%), compared to women (18%).

Among 18-24-year-olds, 35% are willing to emigrate for higher education, while people with better incomes want to move abroad to improve their standard of living.

According to the survey, 29 percent of the youth from urban areas and 18 percent from rural areas expressed a strong desire for outward migration. 

Among all the provinces of Pakistan, Balochistan had the least number of youth who preferred to stay in their own country.

The survey revealed that Saudi Arabia is the top choice for emigration among young Pakistanis, with 41% naming it as their preferred destination.

Saudi Arabia emerged as the top priority for 45% of women and 39% of men among those wanting to move abroad.

Canada emerged as the second most popular choice (12%) for young people wishing to live abroad, only 4 percent aspire to move to the United States of America (USA).