1 week Ago
In response to mounting humanitarian, legal, and diplomatic pressure, the government has proposed critical amendments to tighten laws on human trafficking and migrant smuggling. These changes come amid a tragic backdrop of Pakistani lives lost at sea in pursuit of better futures, and include stronger penalties, dedicated courts, and—most notably—the removal of criminal liability for trafficking victims. This is a commendable step, and one that reflects a more humane and effective approach.
When people are treated as criminals simply for falling prey to false promises, it only emboldens the trafficking networks that continue to thrive in the shadows. By shifting the narrative and policy framework to see these individuals as survivors, not offenders, authorities will have a better chance of encouraging cooperation, gathering intelligence, and eventually dismantling the mafias that profit off human suffering. Gang arrested, items worth Rs3m recovered Let it also be said: no one chooses to risk life and limb unless they are left with no other choice.
When a father boards an illegal vessel or a young man pays a smuggler to traverse perilous terrain, they do so driven by a basic, heartbreaking need—to provide, to survive, to escape cycles of economic despair. To criminalise such desperation is not only morally untenable—it is strategically short-sighted. We hope this policy is followed by real, sustained efforts to educate the public, increase vigilance, and create economic opportunities at home.
The best way to beat the traffickers is to render their promises redundant. If people believe they can build dignified lives where they are, fewer will fall for the lies of a better life elsewhere. Treating victims as victims is a good start, but addressing the root causes that make them vulnerable in the first place is where lasting change lies.
Fire at Nishtar Hospital Tags: crossing lines.
