The Centre on Migration, Remittances and Diaspora (CIMRAD) launched the Pakistan Migration Report 2025 on May 5, 2026, at the Lahore School of Economics. The report – the principal author of which was Professor Dr. Fareeha Zafar (Lahore School of Economics) – outlines recent migration trends, noting that outmigration decreased from 862,000 in 2023 to 725,672 in 2024, before recovering to 762,499 in 2025. Saudi Arabia remains the leading destination, with the Gulf hosting nearly 92% of migrants, while higher remittances from non-GCC countries signal a gradual shift toward skilled migration. Despite this, most migrants remain low or unskilled, and irregular migration to countries such as Canada, the UK, and Australia continues to pose risks. Remittances rose by 25% to $38.8 billion in 2024-25, reflecting both increased skilled migration and mounting financial pressures on households, while female participation remains minimal.
Proceedings of the ceremony opened with a welcome address by Dr. Shahid Amjad Chaudhry, Rector, Lahore School of Economics. He underscored the importance of studying migration as a critical issue for Pakistan, particularly given the country’s economic reliance on external engagement, including workers’ remittances.
Chief Guest Ms. Mio Sato – Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration (IOM) – emphasized the need for safe migration pathways, stronger skill development, and inclusive, evidence-based policies, particularly to address barriers limiting women’s participation.
The main findings of the report were presented by Dr. Fareeha Zafar, which led to discussions on migration trends, remittance growth, and policy challenges. Director CIMRAD, Dr. Rashid Amjad, talked about the remittance inflows and their relationship with the macroeconomic environment. Dr. Nasra Shah, Professor of Demography at the Lahore School of Economics, acknowledged the extensive insights provided by the report, noting that the Pakistan Migration Report series by CIMRAD serve as a valuable knowledge base on migration in Pakistan.
At the launch, the Rector, Ms. Mio Sato, Dr. Fareeha Zafar and Dr. Nasra Shah addressed the gathering from the podium, while Dr. Rashid Amjad spoke from the front desk.
