The facts of return migration in the wake of COVID-19: a policy framework for reintegration of Pakistani workers

ABSTRACT The present study investigates the adverse impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on overseas migration of Pakistani workers - both outflows and return flows. The key objective is to propose a policy framework for successful reintegration of return migrants in their origin communities. The findings reveal that around 2 million overseas Pakistanis have been affected due to COVID pandemic; 1.6 million could not go abroad and another 0.3 to 0.4 million had to return back only from the Middle East. The reintegration measures by the Government of Pakistan were mainly made on a smaller scale and most of the returnees lack information on governmental support and follow-up mechanisms. Our proposed reintegration policy framework suggests that intending or potential migrants and their families need to be educated about their reintegration or resettlement in home communities when they plan for overseas employment. The prudent use of remittances by directing them to productive investment will not only ensure successful reintegration of returning workers but will also promote entrepreneurship in the country, creating more job opportunities. The support by the government and enabling factors (district-level opportunities) will ensure various aspects of reintegration, including economic self-sufficiency, social stability, and psychosocial well-being of return migrations.