Migrant smuggling is a growing crisis in Pakistan, where people seeking better opportunities or fleeing conflict often fall prey to traffickers. Situated along key migration routes, Pakistan has become a major transit hub for smuggling networks. This exposes migrants—especially those without legal pathways—to grave risks, including violence, exploitation, and human rights abuses.

While efforts have been made to curb smuggling through law enforcement and policy reform, weak governance, corruption, and limited legal migration options continue to drive irregular migration. As a result, many migrants are pushed into the hands of smugglers who profit from their desperation.

This issue goes beyond border control—it is a fundamental human rights concern. Migrants often endure perilous journeys, inhumane conditions, and systemic abuse. Without access to justice or protection, they remain vulnerable at every stage of their migration journey.

At the Centre for Human Rights (CFHR), we work to tackle migrant smuggling through a comprehensive, rights-based approach. We focus on strengthening legal protections, building institutional capacity, and addressing the root causes that force people into irregular migration.

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