ISLAMABAD: Reaffirming its commitment to the global diaspora, the Government of Pakistan launched the National Emigration and Welfare Policy 2026 in Islamabad. The announcement was made by the Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, amidst an audience comprising foreign diplomats, international organizations, government officials, and media professionals. The policy aims to address the needs of over 11 million Overseas Pakistanis, focusing on their welfare and integration into global labor markets.
According to Press Information Department, Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain outlined the policy’s vision to align Pakistan’s human resource development with international standards. The policy aims to tackle challenges such as fragmented governance, skill shortages, and informal remittance routes. Emphasizing the significant contributions of overseas workers, who remitted a record US$ 41.58 billion during FY 2025-26, the policy promises to enhance their competitive edge and legal protections.
The policy introduces reforms across five strategic pillars, including safe emigration and skills development. Initiatives such as the Labour Market Research Cell, revamped Overseas Employment Promoters regulations, and expanded roles for Community Welfare Attachés are part of the strategy. The government will also roll out digital systems like the PAKTOK App and Pak. Emigrant Management Framework. Further, the policy aims to expand outreach to underrepresented regions and align technical training curricula with international standards.
Worker protection and diaspora engagement are integral to the policy. Measures include establishing an International Call Centre for complaint redressal, Special Courts for dispute resolution, and an EOBI Pension Scheme. Formal remittance channels will be strengthened to counter informal routes, while returning emigrants will benefit from a profiling database and skills recognition program.
The execution of the policy will occur in three phases over a span of one to three years, monitored by a high-level Task Force chaired by the Federal Minister for OP&HRD. Minister Hussain acknowledged the contributions of provincial leaders and international partners in the policy’s development, emphasizing the goal of ensuring Pakistani workers abroad are supported and recognized.