A recent survey conducted by Ipsos Pakistan has revealed that the majority of Pakistani youth are unwilling to leave the country permanently, expressing a strong desire to contribute to the nation’s development while staying in Pakistan. The survey, which included over 1,600 participants aged 18 to 34, was conducted between September 20 and 27, 2024, and sheds light on the aspirations and priorities of the country’s younger generation.
According to the survey, 74% of respondents stated that they do not think about leaving Pakistan permanently, while 26% said they would move abroad if given the opportunity. The findings highlight a significant majority of young Pakistanis who are committed to staying in the country despite its challenges.
Among the 26% who expressed a willingness to leave, the Middle East emerged as the most popular destination. Of these, 30% said they would prefer to move to Saudi Arabia, followed by 20% to Dubai. Other preferred destinations included the United Kingdom (9%), Canada (8%), the United States (8%), Europe (5%), Australia (3%), Turkey (2%), Qatar (2%), Italy (2%), and Germany (1%).
The survey also revealed regional and socioeconomic differences in the desire to move abroad. Young people from Islamabad were the most likely to express an intention to leave, with 46% of respondents from the capital indicating a willingness to move abroad. This was followed by 35% from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 27% from Punjab, 21% from Balochistan, and 20% from Sindh.
In terms of socioeconomic class, 36% of respondents from the upper-middle or privileged class expressed a desire to leave Pakistan permanently. This figure was lower among the middle class (28%) and the unprivileged class (23%).
The survey results highlight a complex picture of the aspirations of Pakistani youth. While a significant portion of young people remain committed to staying in the country and contributing to its development, a notable minority—particularly from privileged backgrounds and urban centers—are considering opportunities abroad.
