Pakistan has announced a significant policy shift – it will no longer issue passports to its citizens who have obtained asylum in other countries.
According to media reports, the Ministry of Interior issued a circular stating that Pakistani citizens who receive asylum abroad will be prevented from obtaining new passports. Ministry sources have cited national security concerns as the rationale behind this decision.
The circular specifies that the passports of such citizens will be canceled and will not be eligible for renewal. The move aims to tighten controls over asylum seekers, who, according to the government, could pose potential security risks. This measure is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance national security and protect its citizens.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has directed the interior ministry to enforce this policy strictly. In response, the Passport Office has communicated the new directive to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant authorities.
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This policy change is expected to prompt a robust response from human rights organizations and the international community, who may view it as a restrictive measure against vulnerable asylum seekers. The government, however, maintains that the decision is necessary to safeguard national interests. The potential for a heated debate and differing perspectives on this issue is high.
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