Pakistan, Iraq seek solution as illegal migration complicates zaireen travel

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s relationship with Iraq is under increasing strain, burdened by the dual challenges of undocumented migrants and the treatment of Pakistani pilgrims or Zaireen, visiting the country’s revered holy sites. 

The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development presented a report to the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis on Monday.

It revealed the scale of the issue as an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 undocumented Pakistanis are living in Iraq, many trafficked through illegal networks and now enduring exploitation and harsh conditions. 

Iraq, aiming to crack down on irregular migration, has tightened controls at its borders, implementing measures such as passport retention and rigorous screenings of Zaireen at entry points. These policies, while targeting illegal migration, have inadvertently subjected lawful pilgrims to the same scrutiny, sparking frustration and complicating religious travel, the report said. 

Crisis Rooted in Exploitation 

The undocumented crisis stems largely from Pakistan’s poverty-stricken regions — places like Wazirabad, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Parachinar, and Mandi Bahauddin—where human traffickers prey on desperate young men. Lured by promises of high wages, many overstay visas or enter Iraq illegally. 

Once seen as a land of opportunity, Iraq offered salaries of up to $700 a month. But as the numbers of undocumented workers surged, wages dropped to $300-$400, and working conditions worsened. Reports indicate that at least 50 Pakistanis died in Iraq in 2023 due to hazardous conditions, with similar numbers reported this year. 

Also read: Flight carrying Pakistani pilgrims from Iraq lands in Karachi

The plight of these workers has spurred action by Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency, which has pledged to crack down on trafficking networks operating in key regions. But enforcement efforts remain hampered by the scale of these operations and the complicity of local agents and border security personnel. 

Pilgrims Face Growing Challenges 

For legitimate Zaireen, Iraq’s strict policies have added new layers of difficulty. Pilgrims are now required to travel in groups, led by designated leaders called Salaaars. Upon arrival, Iraqi authorities often retain passports, a practice that delays departures and causes logistical chaos. 

The inefficiency of this system has left many Zaireen stranded, their spiritual journeys marred by prolonged waits and bureaucratic hurdles. Families back in Pakistan have expressed growing concern over these delays, which have further strained bilateral ties. 

Toward Bilateral Solution 

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Pakistan and Iraq are negotiating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to address the issues surrounding Zaireen travel. Provisions under discussion include allowing pilgrims to leave groups during emergencies and implementing digital tracking systems to streamline passport handling. 

While these efforts may ease the burden on lawful travelers, the deeper issue of human trafficking remains unresolved. Both governments have pledged to intensify crackdowns on traffickers and agents, but progress has been slow. 

A Path Forward 

The crisis highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy. Addressing illegal migration requires stronger regulatory oversight, improved systems for managing pilgrim travel, and a commitment to dismantling trafficking networks. 

For Zaireen, the journey to Iraq holds profound spiritual significance. Ensuring their safety and dignity while tackling the broader migration challenge will require sustained cooperation between Pakistan and Iraq. Only then can the two nations navigate these troubled waters and rebuild trust in their bilateral relationship.