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In Focus
Pakistan Migration Report highlights reliance on low-skilled labour and rising irregular migration
International Organization for Migration urges Pakistan to prioritise structured migration routes, skill development and financial inclusion
On 06 May, The Express Tribune and The News International reported that the “Pakistan Migration Report 2025” found nearly two-thirds of Pakistani labour migrants remained low or unskilled, with the Gulf region continuing to host around 92 per cent of registered migrant workers and Saudi Arabia accounting for nearly half of all migrants. The report, launched at the Lahore School of Economics, noted that outward migration declined from 862,000 in 2023 to 725,672 in 2024, then recovered slightly to 762,499 in 2025, largely due to tightening visa regimes and labour policies abroad. It also highlighted a gradual diversification towards destinations such as the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, while remittance inflows rose 25 per cent to USD 38.3 billion in 2024-25, accounting for 9.34 per cent of Pakistan’s GDP. However, the report warned that stricter migration pathways were fuelling irregular migration, with 5,680 Pakistanis apprehended at European borders in 2024.
Speaking at the launch event, Mio Sato, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration in Pakistan, stressed the need for safer and more orderly migration channels, arguing that migration “should be a choice and not a necessity”. She called for stronger skills development programmes aligned with global labour market demands, greater awareness about the dangers of irregular migration, and improved financial inclusion to ensure remittances are used more productively. The report also highlighted gender disparities in migration, noting that women represented only 1 per cent of Pakistan’s migrant workforce due to socio-cultural barriers, limited recruitment access and concerns over safety and working conditions abroad. ("Low-skilled workers dominate Pakistan’s migration as remittances surge: report," The News International, 06 May 2026; "Pakistan needs structured migration pathways," The Express Tribune, 06 May 2026)
In Brief
SECURITY
Nine suspects killed in Crime Control Department encounters across Punjab
On 06 May, Dawn reported that nine suspects were killed in three separate encounters with the Crime Control Department (CCD) across Punjab. In Faisalabad, four suspects were claimed by police to have been shot dead by their own accomplices during a confrontation near Sem Nullah, with all four identified as proclaimed offenders with records across multiple districts. In Jaranwala, two suspects were killed in similar circumstances near Chak 63 GB, with one alleged to have 45 cases against him. In Chiniot, three suspects died of gunshot wounds after an encounter in a crop field near Baghra Sadat village following a reported dacoity, with police claiming the men were also shot by their own accomplices. In all three incidents, police attributed the deaths to friendly fire from fleeing accomplices, a pattern that has drawn scrutiny in past encounter cases across the province. ("Nine suspects killed in CCD 'encounters' across Punjab," Dawn, 06 May 2026)
Corps Commanders' Conference stresses restraint and sovereignty as ceasefire remains fragile
On 05 May, Dawn reported that the 275th Corps Commanders' Conference, presided over by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, reiterated that regional peace and stability were "intrinsically linked to collective restraint, responsibility and respect for sovereignty," with the forum acknowledging Pakistan's continued role in advocating stability amid the fragile US-Iran ceasefire. On Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, the forum noted continued degradation of terrorist networks and infrastructure, and strongly rejected Afghan Taliban claims of Pakistani strikes on civilians as a "coordinated disinformation strategy." During the conference, Field Marshal Munir directed commanders to maintain the highest levels of operational readiness in the face of evolving conventional and non-conventional threats. ("Regional peace, stability linked to collective restraint, respect for sovereignty: army's top brass," Dawn, 05 May 2026)
EXTERNAL
PM Shehbaz condemns Iranian drone and missile attacks on UAE as ceasefire comes under strain
On 05 May, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned missile and drone attacks on civilian infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), expressing solidarity with President Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan and stressing the need for the ceasefire to be upheld to allow diplomatic space for dialogue. The attacks, which Iran said were in response to "US military adventurism," targeted the Fujairah energy hub, wounding three Indian nationals. The UAE's foreign ministry described the strikes as a "dangerous escalation" and reserved the right to respond. The attacks shattered a period of relative calm since the Pakistan-mediated ceasefire of 08 April, with Fujairah having previously been struck by a drone attack on 14 March. ("PM Shehbaz condemns drone, missile attacks in UAE," Dawn, 05 May 2026)
Foreign Minister Dar reaffirms Pakistan's commitment to China partnership
On 05 May, The Express Tribune reported that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, reiterating Pakistan's commitment to advancing the "iron-clad All-Weather Strategic Partnership" with China across all sectors. The ambassador appreciated Pakistan's mediation efforts in the US-Iran war and reaffirmed the enduring strength of bilateral ties. Both sides expressed satisfaction with ongoing exchanges and looked forward to marking the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations with high-level engagements. ("FM Dar reaffirms commitment to advancing Pak-China iron-clad partnership," The Express Tribune, 05 May 2026)
ECONOMY
Business leaders warn over widening trade deficit amid falling exports
On 06 May, Dawn reported that Pakistani business leaders expressed concern over a 20 per cent rise in the country’s trade deficit to nearly USD 32 billion during the first 10 months of FY26, warning that rising imports and declining exports were placing increasing pressure on foreign exchange reserves and the external account. The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) said imports rose nearly seven per cent to USD 57.19 billion during July-April FY26. In comparison, exports fell 6.25 per cent to USD 25.21 billion, with April recording the highest monthly trade deficit in 46 months. Business leaders urged the government to fast-track export incentives, reduce energy tariffs and interest rates for industries, and curb non-essential imports, arguing that structural weaknesses in manufacturing and textiles were undermining Pakistan’s global competitiveness and worsening economic vulnerabilities. (“Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry flags worsening trade imbalance,” Dawn, 06 May 2026)
Pakistan misses Special Economic Zone investment and jobs targets under CPEC
On 05 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan fell well short of its targets to attract over USD eight billion in foreign direct investment and generate 500,000 jobs through Special Economic Zones (SEZs) between 2018 and 2024. Investment Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh stated that only four of the nine designated SEZs under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had progressed beyond the planning stage. Speaking at the Pakistan-China Industrialisation Dialogue in Islamabad, the minister said Pakistan was now shifting towards the second phase of CPEC, focused on industrialisation, export-led growth and the relocation of Chinese manufacturing in sectors such as electronics, textiles, pharmaceuticals and electric vehicles. He also acknowledged a widening trade imbalance with China, noting that Chinese exports to Pakistan rose to USD 20 billion in 2024 while Pakistan’s exports remained around USD three billion annually, underscoring structural weaknesses in Pakistan’s manufacturing and export sectors. (“Pakistan misses $8bn SEZ investment, 500,000-job targets: minister,” Dawn, 05 May 2026)
Pakistan banking sector grows nearly 18 per cant amid surge in government securities investments
On 06 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s banking sector balance sheet expanded by 17.8 per cent during calendar year 2025 (CY25), according to the State Bank of Pakistan’s Financial Stability Review, with growth driven largely by increased investment in government securities. The report said investments accounted for 62 per cent of banks’ asset mix, up from 55.5 per cent a year earlier, while deposits grew by 24.7 per cent, reversing the slowdown recorded in 2024. The central bank noted that banks continued to favour low-risk sovereign securities over private-sector lending, reflecting contained credit risks and a cautious lending environment, although the sector’s liquidity, profitability and capital adequacy remained strong. The report also highlighted rapid growth in Islamic banking institutions, whose assets expanded by 30.7 per cent during the year and reached 23 per cent of the total banking sector assets. (“Banking sector expands 17.8pc during calendar year 2025,” Dawn, 06 May 2026)
Pakistan accelerates consultations to finalise taxation proposals ahead of IMF meeting
On 06 May, Dawn reported that Pakistan accelerated consultations with business stakeholders ahead of expected talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on finalising the federal budget for 2026-27. Discussions are likely to begin after the IMF Executive Board meets on 08 May to consider releasing USD 1.2 billion under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb held meetings with delegations from the Insurance Association of Pakistan (IAP) and the Mutual Funds Association of Pakistan (MUFAP) to discuss taxation, regulatory reforms and financial sector development, while Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani met representatives from Nestlé Pakistan and Philip Morris International (PMI) regarding the broader taxation framework, ease of doing business and industrial contributions. The consultations form part of the government’s efforts to finalise fiscal and taxation proposals before negotiations with the IMF on the next budget framework. (“Pakistan speeds up taxation proposals ahead of key IMF budget parleys,” The News International, 06 May 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Imran Khan’s sisters urge public support after jail meeting denied
On 05 May, Dawn reported that PTI founder Imran Khan’s sisters and party leaders were again not allowed to meet him at Adiala Jail. Aleema Khan, Noreen Khan and Uzma Khan arrived at the jail on the official meeting day, but security officials stopped them from entering. Several PTI leaders, including Salman Akram Raja and Junaid Akbar, were also present outside the jail. Speaking to the media, Aleema Khan asked party supporters and the public to gather outside the jail to increase pressure on the government. The sisters said Imran Khan was being kept in solitary confinement and criticised the courts for not ensuring justice. PTI leaders also said the government was ignoring court orders that allow meetings with family members, lawyers and political leaders. The party also referred to the latest Human Rights Commission of Pakistan report, which raised concerns about freedom of expression, political arrests and pressure on the media. The development highlights growing political tensions and human rights concerns in Pakistan. (“Imran’s sisters call for public pressure as authorities deny jail meeting,” Dawn, 05 May 2026)
Police briefly detain Aurat March activists in Karachi
On 05 May, Dawn reported that Karachi police briefly detained seven Aurat March activists near the Karachi Press Club before later releasing them on the orders of Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar. The activists had gathered to hold a press conference to demand official permission for their annual Aurat March planned for 10 May at Sea View. Activists Sheema Kirmani and Shahzadi Rai were among those detained. Aurat March organisers said police blocked access to the press club and stopped activists before the press conference started. The group said the authorities were trying to stop peaceful activism and silence dissent. They also asked the Sindh government to explain the arrests and the delay in permitting the march. Rights activists questioned why restrictions under Section 144 were being used against peaceful gatherings and press conferences. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan criticised the detentions and said they showed growing restrictions on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in the country. The development highlights increasing concerns about civic freedoms and women’s rights activism in Pakistan. (“Police release Aurat March activists after brief detention in Karachi,” Dawn, 05 May 2026)
ON INDIA
Analysts warn future India-Pakistan conflict could become more dangerous
On 06 May, Dawn reported that US and international experts warned that future conflicts between India and Pakistan could become more dangerous and difficult to control. Reports by groups such as The Washington Post and the Congressional Research Service said the May 2025 conflict showed a new type of limited war using drones, missiles and air power instead of a ground invasion. Experts warned that both countries may now think they can fight limited wars without causing nuclear escalation. They also raised concerns about water tensions after India placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance following the 2025 attack. Pakistan said that any attempt to stop or reduce water flows would be treated as an “Act of War”. Experts added that future conflicts could escalate more quickly because of shorter response times and the risk of miscalculation. These developments highlight growing security concerns in South Asia and fears that future India-Pakistan tensions could become harder to manage peacefully. (“Next India-Pakistan conflict may be ‘more dangerous’, analysts warn,” Dawn, 06 May 2026)
AF-PAK
Taliban’s policy to provide safe haven to militant groups has been exposed, said CDF Munir
On 05 May, The News International reported that Pakistan’s military leadership accused the Afghan Taliban regime of providing safe havens to militants during the 275th Corps Commanders’ Conference, chaired by COAS/CDF Asim Munir in Rawalpindi. According to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the forum said the Taliban’s alleged policy of sheltering Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant groups was “backfiring” and rejected Kabul’s accusations that Pakistan was targeting civilians inside Afghanistan, describing them as part of a coordinated disinformation campaign. The military also reaffirmed support for Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, stating that Pakistan’s actions remained focused on infiltrators, militant hideouts and support infrastructure amid ongoing cross-border tensions and a broader resurgence in militancy along the frontier. (“Taliban regime's ‘perverted policy’ to provide safe havens to terrorists stands fully exposed: Pakistan Army,” The News International, 05 May 2026)
Pakistan and the US-Iran War
Trump pauses “Project Freedom” following consultations with Pakistan and others
Islamabad continues diplomatic push for peace deal as it considers additional LNG spot purchases amid shortage
On 06 May, The Express Tribune and The News International reported that US President Donald Trump announced a temporary pause to “Project Freedom” - the operation meant to ensure safe movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz - following consultations with Pakistan and other states amid ongoing negotiations with Iran. Trump said the naval blockade itself would remain in place, but shipping movements would be briefly eased to determine whether a final agreement with Tehran could be reached, describing talks as progressing positively despite unresolved issues.?
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan’s mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran had reached an “advanced level”, expressing hope that negotiations would eventually conclude given their importance for regional stability and the global economy. The developments come amid mounting concerns over energy security and LNG shipments through the Gulf, with Pakistan reportedly considering additional spot LNG purchases after fears over safe passage through Hormuz prompted caution among suppliers, particularly Qatar. (“US-IRAN WAR: CEASEFIRE AMID HOPES FOR PEACE,” The News International, 06 May 2026; “FM Dar hopeful of progress in US?Iran talks, urges peaceful settlement through negotiations,” The Express Tribune, 05 May 2026; “Hormuz tensions: Pakistan scrambles for spot LNG supplies as Qatar cargoes stall,” The News International, 06 May 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
War & geopolitics
Zahid Hussain, "An asymmetrical war," Dawn, 06 May 2026
"Speaking at the Woodrow Wilson International Centre in Washington, D.C., in early 2012, Henry Kissinger asserted that, since World War II, the US had entered wars without a clear exit strategy, and often sought a way out shortly after engagement. He highlighted the Afghan conflict as an example of a prolonged and unwinnable war. At that time, the US, despite being the world’s greatest military power, was bogged down in a conflict that had entered its second decade. It took another decade for this war to conclude, resulting in utter humiliation for America, which had faced similar challenges in Vietnam and Iraq."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1997919/an-asymmetrical-war
AI
Danielle Sharaf, "AI guardrails," Dawn, 06 May 2026
"Consider a farmer in South Punjab applying for a loan through a banking app. He has no credit history, no employment record, no documented collateral. What he does have is 30 years of ploughing the same piece of land, paying his debts in cash, and raising a family on seasonal income. Most Western-trained AI models do not understand his reality. They see absence where there is, in fact, a life that qualifies. Rejection is swift. Second chances, rare."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1997916/ai-guardrails
Energy
Abis Husein, "Energy sector: between policy turbulence and system reform," The Express Tribune, 06 May 2026
"The power sector in Pakistan has been experiencing unexpected doubts recently. There have been a series of policy announcements that have followed closely, such as the replacement of net metering by net billing, the adoption of fixed charges depending on authorised load, continuing tariff restructuring debates, and the growth of digital infrastructures such as artificial intelligence computing and crypto mining. Simultaneously, the global energy markets are unstable because of the geopolitical tensions in regions. Taken separately, these developments are not peculiar. Put together, though, they give the impression of a system in flux."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606526/energy-sector-between-policy-turbulence-and-system-reform
Gender-based violence
Dr Rakhshinda Perveen, "Gender-based violence and our judicial officers," The Express Tribune, 06 May 2026
"A man who reports a stolen wallet is not asked what he was wearing when he lost it, or what business he had on that street at that hour. That line of questioning, considered routine when a woman reports violence, is not seen as intrusive. It is seen as relevant. It is defended in the name of religion, culture, and an honour that is somehow always stored in the body of someone else: the sinf-e-nazuk, who is simultaneously held responsible for everything. This is not prejudice at the fringes. It is normalised which is what makes it so difficult to see, including for a trained, skilled judge. Judges are not above the society that shaped them. They are its microcosm, and what a society normalises, its courtrooms can quietly enforce."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2606525/gender-based-violence-and-our-judicial-officers
Climate change
Editorial, "Feeling the heat," Dawn, 06 May 2026
"Another heatwave season has begun, and once again, the state is scrambling to respond to conditions it has long been warned about. The National Disaster Management Authority has issued its latest advisory, warning of above-normal temperatures through May and June. Protocols are in place, hospitals are on alert, and departments have been assigned tasks. Yet little has changed. The response still falls short where it matters most. Karachi shows what that failure looks like. As temperatures climbed past 44°C on Monday — the highest since they reached 46°C in 2018 — at least 10 people died. The heat was severe, but it was not the only cause. Long power cuts and scarce water turned a harsh day into a deadly one. When electricity disappears for hours and taps run dry in peak heat, people are left with no way to cope. At that point, it is not just the weather that is dangerous; it is the absence of basic services."
https://www.dawn.com/news/1997920/feeling-the-heat
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