Big Take cover image

Big Take

Pakistan Is Getting Too Expensive For Its Middle Class – So They’re Leaving

Nov 21, 2024
Pakistan is witnessing an unprecedented brain drain, with over one million skilled professionals, including doctors and engineers, leaving for better prospects abroad. Rising living costs and a fragile economy are driving this exodus, putting immense pressure on the middle class. As the country grapples with inflation and reliance on IMF loans, talented individuals are torn between patriotism and the need for financial security. The situation raises critical questions about the future of the nation’s workforce and economy.
13:59

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Rising living costs and inflation are forcing skilled professionals in Pakistan to leave in search of better opportunities abroad.
  • The exodus of educated workers threatens Pakistan's economic recovery, complicating efforts to stabilize the nation's fragile financial situation.

Deep dives

Economic Hardships Driving Emigration

Rising living costs in Pakistan are pushing many educated individuals to seek opportunities abroad. Asad Ijaz Bhatt, who returned to Pakistan to contribute, found his salary unable to keep pace with inflated prices for essentials like rent and fuel. Faced with escalating expenses, he was compelled to juggle multiple jobs while grappling with declining health and increased responsibilities. His experience reflects a broader trend, with a record outflow of skilled professionals from Pakistan amid a bleak economic landscape.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode