Pakistan: No passport for illigal asylum seekers
Govt. tightens passport policy amid rising international pressure on human smuggling and trafficking
Islamabad: Pakistan is restricting passport issuance to citizens seeking asylum abroad through unlawful means. This move comes in response to national security concerns and international obligations. The new restrictions aim to deter individuals from attempting to leave the country illegally while simultaneously demonstrating Pakistan's commitment to upholding international agreements on human smuggling and trafficking.
Fulfilling international commitments
The Ministry of Interior issued a memo outlining international agreements on human smuggling and trafficking as the key driver for this decision. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi's recent European visits further highlighted the issue, with discussions in the UK, Italy, and other countries underlining concerns regarding Pakistani nationals residing illegally. These international pressures, coupled with Pakistan's existing obligations, have spurred the implementation of stricter measures.
Embassies enforcing passport restrictions
The Directorate of Immigration and Passports has circulated a memo to all Pakistani embassies worldwide, outlining the new enforcement procedures. Previously, Pakistanis who entered Europe illegally could apply for passports through embassies after undergoing an inquiry and verification process. This option will no longer be available. The new policy dictates that individuals attempting to secure asylum through unlawful means will be denied both passports and national identity cards.