Do More than Two-Thirds of Pakistanis Still Want to Leave Pakistan? Why or Why Not?
The question of whether a majority of Pakistanis still desire to leave the country is a complex one, rooted in political, economic, and cultural factors. Various polls and reports consistently highlight that a significant proportion of Pakistanis consider emigration both as a personal and economic strategy. But why do they wish to leave, and will they return?
Migration as a Choice
It is true that many Pakistanis are opting to migration for better living conditions and economic opportunities. While it is frequently argued that patriotic motives should prevent emigration, this stance is often misinformed. A recent poll suggests that those who leave Pakistan in search of work still prioritize finding employment, regardless of the destination. If they are not successful, they often remain abroad. This underscores the pragmatic underpinnings that drive migration.
Furthermore, those who are currently employed in Pakistan often seek better living standards or career advancement in foreign countries, where they might enjoy more conducive work conditions and higher earnings. The idea of leaving remains a viable option, despite strong national ties and historical ties to the land.
National Identity and Estrangement
The foundation of Pakistan's creation was originally rooted in the doctrine of Islamic nationalism. However, this has engendered significant divisions and has not fulfilled the nationalistic aspirations it initially set forth. The absence of logical and rational governance has led to a situation where national unity is often under threat. Despite this, in the immediate term, the possibility of a disintegration of Pakistan remains low, a factor that is often mirrored in India.
Moreover, there is a pervasive confusion regarding the definition of Pakistan. Some argue that the term 'Pakistan' encompasses Punjab, Afghanistan, Kashmir, Sindh, and Turkistan. Others believe that 'Pakistan' means 'pure.' In this context, the historical figure of Mohammed bin Qasim is often invoked to justify the current state of purity believed to exist. However, such claims are steeped in historical inaccuracies. The ideology of purity is a fabricated narrative perpetuated by those in power, justified through the looting, rape, and destruction carried out by various conquerors, including Gwaliar, Guri, Nadir Shah, Babur, and Aurangzeb.
The legacy of these rulers and invaders has contributed to a deep-seated fragmentation within Pakistani society, most evident in the tensions between Punjabis and other ethnic groups. The division of provinces such as Baluchistan, originally not part of the original Pakistani plan, highlights the disjointed nature of the state. Within Sindh, there is a struggle between indigenous Sindhis and the mohajir (refugee) population, further exacerbating the already fragile national identity.
Conclusion
Although the desire to leave Pakistan exists, it is driven by a combination of economic factors and a sense of alienation from the state's original ideological foundations. The possibility of more Pakistanis seeking to emigrate highlights the urgent need for reforms and a redefinition of patriotism that transcends the notion of accepting a state that fails to deliver on its core promises. For a more unified and prosperous Pakistan, addressing these deep-seated issues is essential.