Abstract
Illegal immigration from Pakistan to the UK is a complex issue with various factors at play. Societal turmoil, political instability, and economic inequality contribute to the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants upon arrival. These include geographical risks, financial constraints, legal complexities, and social adjustment difficulties. Despite negative impacts such as resource strain and community conflict, undocumented immigrants fill labor gaps and contribute positively to local economies. Governments must address root causes, reform legal frameworks, protect refugee rights, and promote global collaboration. Tightening border control, combating human trafficking, and funding integration programs are crucial steps. Efforts should focus on dialogue, partnership, and affirming the rights of all individuals regardless of legal status.
Key Words
Illegal Immigration, Pakistan, UK, Challenges, Policy, Integration, Humanitarian, Cooperation
Introduction
Illegal immigration to the United Kingdom from Pakistan has grown to be a significant issue in recent years, impacting individuals across three continents and several social, economic, and political domains. People traveling from Pakistan to the UK in quest for better opportunities is a perfect example of the complexity of migration, globalization, and human ambitions. (Smith, 2014). Amidst economic disparities, political turmoil, and social unrest in Pakistan, a significant number of its citizens undertake perilous journeys, often through
clandestine routes and with the assistance of human traffickers, in pursuit of what they perceive as opportunities and safety in the UK (Jones, Ram, & Edwards, 2004).
This trend has attracted a lot of interest especially generated discussions in a number of fields, such as global politics, governance, and humanitarianism. Scholars aim to elucidate the complex network of forces propelling Illegal Immigration and its extensive ramifications, while policymakers wrestle with issues related to border security, immigration regulations, and human rights (Shah, 2020). In a world growing more interconnected by the day, the public is also talking about questions of global solidarity, identity, and integration.
We delve into a smorgasbord of issues surrounding Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK. The challenges faced by migrants as they navigate treacherous routes, the intricate labyrinth of laws and regulations that govern their journey, and the ripple effects of such movement on both ends of the spectrum — all highlighted in Leksono's work in 2024. Our objective is to paint a complete picture of this convoluted subject matter; an understanding that can fuel informed conversations and policy considerations. With hopes that it will draw out more empathy, awareness, and collaboration towards addressing issues related to Illegal Immigration— an act that binds us all in this tightly knitted global village.
Background
The main reason men (sometimes women) try to enter to the UK illegally, illegally is the social, political, and economic conditions in Pakistan. Socio-economic problems are related to the distribution of affluent individuals and poor people. Pakistan has a deep economic inequality. The gross annual income growth per head is higher in the central segment of the population but lower in the lower parts. Such inequality is affecting the large population of Pakistan. There is a strict stance on getting residency in Western Europe and the USA. A majority of Pakistanis always desired to flee their country in search of refuge abroad. Such refugees from Pakistan through illegal routes and go to the UK (Smith, 2014). Lured by the hope of a safer environment and better jobs, thousands of Pakistanis take a risky leap across the seas for the UK. They are moved by human traffickers posing as benefactors along the route, who often abuse and exploit the refugees. These illegal immigrants are driven by the prospect of a better life in a developed country, and thus, continue to conduct journeys that are dangerous and arduous despite the risks and struggles involved, since this is sometimes the only chance of providing a better life for their family members.
Aim of Study
The goal of this article is to give a full look at the complicated issue of people coming from Pakistan
to the UK illegally,. The goal is to give useful information about this complicated issue by looking into the problems migrants face, the laws and regulations governing immigration, and the significant impacts of migration to the host country. We tried to add to the discussion and policymaking about Illegal Immigration by using careful analysis and looking at things from different perspectives.
Overview
Going from Pakistan to the UK illegally, is a long and difficult process that refugees must go through (Gulati & Pareek, 2021). These problems include physical dangers, limited funds, complicated laws, and social hindrances. People who are migrating take dangerous trips, where they may be abused, killed, or exploited. They also have to deal with strict immigration laws and policies in both Pakistan and the UK, which makes them even more vulnerable and increases the chances that they will be detained, sent back to Pakistan, or exploited (Sajid, 2010).
Illegal immigration affects not just the people who come here, It also affects neighborhoods and economies in both the countries that send and receive migrants (Ahmad, 2016). This includes the stress on the UK's social services, healthcare, and infrastructure, as well as the money that illegal immigrants bring in. This article intends to highlight the difficulties associated with persons entering the UK illegally, from Pakistan by examining these issues, regulations, and consequences. It also hopes to spark meaningful discussion and encourage action to address the problem of migrant-to-immigrant conversion.
Challenges Faced by Illegal Immigrants
The trip of Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK is
full of problems and is very dangerous for those who experience it. People who
go on this dangerous journey in search of better chances and safety face many
problems that test their strength and determination (Casarico, Facchini, &
Frattini, 2015).
These problems, which range from physical dangers to complicated laws, show how
hard Illegal Immigration is, and how much it changes the lives of refugees. One
of the biggest problems of illegal immigrants from Pakistan to the UK is the
journey itself is very unsafe. As they make their way through dangerous regions
and often unforgiving terrains, migrants put their lives at risk (Leksono, 2024).
Illegal immigrants from Pakistan, especially those from
marginalized areas, have a hard time because they can't afford to pay their bills.
Migration to the UK is hard for many people because of the high costs of
Illegal Immigration, such as transportation fees, bribery, and other costs
(Cohen & Freedom, 2013). Many are forced to sell their belongings, take out
loans, or depend on the help of people smugglers, which puts their finances in
danger and keeps them in loops of debt and abuse. Here we have mentioned a
table of illegal immigrants during the years 2009 to 2014, many reports
published by the UN of Migration each year, which have dispersed/shattered
data, whereas the data from 2009 to 2014 is compiled yet accurate.
Table 1
Shows the
migration trend from 2009-2014
Country of Origin |
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
Afghanistan |
17.828 |
28.299 |
28528 |
16584 |
6412 |
12901 |
Iraq |
7.662 |
4.968 |
2863 |
2212 |
700 |
1023 |
Pakistan |
4.854 |
8.830 |
19975 |
11136 |
3982 |
3621 |
Syria |
440 |
851 |
1522 |
7927 |
8517 |
32520 |
Total |
126145 |
132524 |
99.368 |
76878 |
43002 |
77163 |
Source: data from the Hellenic Police32
Pakistani immigrants face yet another
huge problem: figuring out the complicated web of laws and rules that govern
immigration. Migrants often put themselves at risk of being detained, deported,
or exploited because they can't easily get legal help or resources. Due to the
non-availability of Proper Paperwork, they lack legal standing which makes
their situation even worse. Such people are at the mercy of the authorities,
who can either deport them or facilitate them, here is the specified emigration
chart which shows the number of immigrants who left the country with the hope
to get better future opportunities in the UK.
Figure 1
Immigration trend of Pakistan to the UK from 2011-2024
It is probably challenging for immigrants from Pakistan to integrate into UK society and tradition. Migrants might also experience emotions of isolation and exclusion due to social network deficiencies, cultural variations, and language limitations (Aggarwal, 2017). Shame and discrimination exacerbate their issues and make it greater difficult for individuals to integrate into society, and get admission to possibilities, and services that might be significant to them.
Geographical and Physical Risks
The Arduous Journey from Pakistan to the UK is full of Challenges. The trip includes going across several borders, navigating through different landscapes, and meeting many dangers along the way (Aggarwal, 2017). As we move forward, we will talk about the common routes that migrants take, the dangers that human traffickers pose, and the sad truth of violent and fatal events. In order to get from Pakistan to the UK illegally, people have to go through several countries, each with its own problems and difficulties (Marfleet & Blustein, 2011). Many migrants start their journey in Pakistan and cross into nearby countries like Iran or Turkey before continuing west towards Europe. There is no set path, but this is where most migrants start their journey. From there, they might try to get to the UK by crossing the English Channel, but they usually do this in secret by hiding on boats or trucks.
The Eastern Mediterranean Road, which goes through Iran and Turkey, is one of the favorite routes for Human traffickers. People who want to go to Turkey enter Iran through the porous border with Pakistan and then travel through rough landscapes and mountainous areas (Reyneri, 2004). From there, they may try to cross the Aegean Sea into Europe, but the boats are usually too busy and unsafe for the journey. The Northern Road is another way to get there. It goes through Central Asia and Russia. People who want to get to Russia may go through Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan on their way. Based on that, they might try to get into Eastern Europe by land or by crossing the Baltic Sea or the Black Sea (Jönsson, 2014).
Figure 2
Shows the Travel Route toward Turkey and further
No matter what path they take, migrants face many problems along the way, such as bad weather, rough terrain, and the constant risk of being caught and detained by authorities. There is a lot of uncertainty and danger on the trip, and many migrants have to make hard treks that last weeks or even months.
Risks from Traffickers
Human smugglers are a big part of Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK. They take advantage of migrants' weaknesses and their strong desire for a better life. These traffickers run complex networks that include more than one country. They lure migrants with claims of safety and help to get to their final destination (Shah, 2020).
The truth, though, is very different from what traffickers say they will do. Many migrants end up at the mercy of cruel crooks who use, abuse, and hurt them (Hilburn, 2014). Traffickers charge very high prices for their services, which often locks migrants into debt bonds and keeps them being exploited. A lot of refugees are tricked or forced to go somewhere they don't want to go and don't know how dangerous it is until it's too late.
Figure 3
Traffickers Cycle
Pakistani migrants are often forced into inhumane conditions during their trip, crammed into overcrowded vehicles or makeshift shelters with little food, water, or sanitation (Jovanov, 2023). Women and children are more likely than men to be abused and exploited, and they may even be trafficked to be sexually exploited or made to work.
Incidents of Violence and Fatalities
Violence and deaths happen along the path of Illegal Immigration, showing the harsh reality that migrants face as they make their dangerous trip (Hilburn,2014). Criminal gangs, competing transportation networks, and even the police often go after migrants, who risk being robbed, beaten, or forced to pay money. Criminals with no conscience sometimes abuse, kidnap, or even kill migrants. Here is a detailed chart showing the challenges faced by illegal immigrants.
Figure 4
Showing the challenges faced by immigrants (Immigration Food, 2023)
Moreover, the treacherous nature of the trip itself poses significant risks to the lives of migrants, with many succumbing to accidents, exposure, or drowning while attempting to cross borders or seas (Jovanov, 2023). The Mediterranean Sea has become a graveyard for thousands of refugees who die while trying desperately to get to Europe, the incident of alike nature occurred on June 14, 2023, when a boat carrying 700 immigrants including 350 Pakistani, sank during a tragic incident of Ship drowned near Greece at the Mediterranean Sea. When ships are overcrowded and not seaworthy and there aren't enough safety measures in place, terrible accidents and loss of life are more likely to happen (Black, Collyer, Skeldon, & Waddington, 2021).
Figure 5
The New Cutting related to the recent Boat Incident at the Mediterranean Sea
The sad truth of violent and fatal events makes it even more important to take immediate action to stop Illegal Immigration and protect the safety and well-being of migrants (Shah, 2020). By fighting the widespread impact of human traffickers, making borders safer, and boosting international cooperation, policymakers can work to make migration safer and more humane. This will lower the risks migrants face and stop more people from dying.
Financial Constraints
People who want to illegally enter the UK from Pakistan face a big problem; they can't afford to do it due to the huge costs of migration and huge differences in income, which push people to look for better chances abroad, money is a very important factor in shaping the migration experience (Ng’andu, 2019).
Migration Costs
There are huge costs involved with illegally coming to the UK from Pakistan, often more than the refugees and their families can afford. These prices include many different costs, like the price of transportation, the money paid to buy border guards and people traffickers, and the cost of living while on the trip. In addition, migrants may have to pay more for fake papers, housing, and other things they need (Shah, 2020).
The exact cost of migration depends on things like the route taken, the method of transportation used, and the services that human traffickers offer (Jones, Ram, & Edwards, 2004). However, it is not unusual for migrants to pay smugglers thousands of dollars to get help getting to where they want to go. For a lot of migrants, these costs are a huge financial load that forces them to do desperate things to pay for their trip.
Economic Disparity's Role in Funding the Journey
Economic inequality is a big reason why people from Pakistan leave their country to find better chances abroad. Pakistan, like many underdeveloped countries, has a lot of problems with poverty, unemployment, and wage inequality. These problems make people look for work in other places (Pickus & Skerry, 2007). Many Pakistanis take the dangerous trip of Illegal Immigration because they want to make more money, live better, and have better opportunities for themselves and their families.
Because of the big difference in income between developed and undeveloped countries, a lot of refugees don't have the money they need to pay for their trip (Cohen & Freedom, 2013). People from underrepresented groups, in particular, face big problems because they can't get enough money or chances. Because of this, migrants are often stuck in a cycle of poverty and abuse, with little choice but to look for work abroad.
Fundraising Methods
Migrants use a range of fundraising techniques to pay for their trip to the UK, even though the costs are very high (Smith, 2014). Some of these ways to get money are to take it from family and friends or sell things you own, like land or animals. Migrants may also borrow money from private moneylenders or microfinance institutions, but the interest rates are usually very high.
Some travelers also do things to make money, like working multiple jobs or taking part in the informal economy, to save money for their trip (Mayr, Minter, & Krieger, 2012). Others may go to neighborhood groups, religious institutions, or migrant networks for help. These groups offer financial support and other resources to make migration easier. But these ways of raising money are often full of risks and unknowns, leaving refugees open to being exploited and getting into debt (Sajid, 2010).
Social and Cultural Adjustment
When illegal immigrants from Pakistan come to the UK, they face a lot of problems as they try to fit in, with the local culture and society. Migrants have to deal with a complicated and often hostile social environment that makes it harder for them to integrate and makes them more vulnerable (Gordon, Scanlon, Travers, & Whitehead, 2009). They have to deal with language and cultural hurdles as well as discrimination and exclusion.
Language and Cultural Barriers
One of the biggest problems for people who come to the UK illegally, from Pakistan is that they don't speak the language. Many immigrants come to the UK not knowing how to speak English very well, even though it is the main language spoken there. This language barrier makes it harder for them to talk clearly, get to services they need, and get along with native speakers in everyday situations (Marfleet & Blustein, 2011). If immigrants don't speak the language well, it may be hard for them to find work, get medical care, or sign up for school programs. They feel even more alone and left out because of this.
On top of that, newcomers face problems with British society that make it harder for them to fit in. If you don't follow the same customs, rules, or social norms as the native-born people, you might get into arguments and confusion. This can make people feel even more alone and out of place in their culture (Nowrasteh, 2019). It can be hard for immigrants to get used to new social norms, learn how to get along with others, and deal with systems that are set up in a hierarchy. It might be even harder for them to find a group to join and a sense of self in their new place.
Absence of Support Networks
People from Pakistan who come to the UK illegally, also have a hard time because they can't get help from other people. People who are here legally may have family, friends, or neighborhood groups as official support systems and social networks. When it comes to illegal aliens, they are often left alone and at risk (Gulati & Pareek, 2021). They might not be able to get simple services and resources like help with housing, legal issues, or medical care. This leaves them open to being abused by landlords, workers, and smugglers.
Migrants stay away from their communities and are less likely to ask for help because they are afraid of being caught and sent back to their home countries. Folks who are migrants might be scared to ask for help because they don't want to get in trouble with the law or be punished by the authorities. This makes them even more weak and dangerous (Cohen & Freedom, 2013). When migrants don't have support networks, they don't have many ways to get help or justice. This leaves them alone and reliant on people or networks that look out for them.
Discrimination and Marginalization
Illegal immigrants from Pakistan also face widespread prejudice and exclusion in the country where they live, which makes it harder for them to integrate and makes them even more vulnerable. Native-born residents may be hostile, suspicious, and prejudiced toward migrants because they see them as strangers or threats to their economic and social well-being (Ahmad, 2016). Discrimination can come in many forms, such as verbal abuse, physical violence, and institutional barriers that make it hard for migrants to get jobs, housing, education, and other chances.
Migrants may also feel left out in their own communities, where they have to deal with social structures, power struggles and divides within the group because of things like race, religion, or economic status (Black, Collyer, Skeldon, & Waddington, 2021). This internal marginalization makes refugees feel even more alone and disconnected, which makes it harder for them to build strong support networks and social networks. In the following Table, we have mentioned the challenges faced by individual migrants.
Figure 6
Shows Migration Risks
Legal Complications
Pakistani Illegal Immigrants may face a hard time in the UK at the beginning. There are many reasons for these problems, such as not having the right paperwork or legal standing, constantly fearing detention, deportation, and exploitation, and the fact that immigration laws are hard to understand.
Lack of Paperwork and Status
One of the biggest legal problems that people who come from Pakistan illegally face, is not having the right paperwork and legal status. Many immigrants come to the UK without legal passports, visas, or other necessary documents. This makes it easy for immigration officials to catch and send back home (Casarico, Facchini, & Frattini, 2015). Without legal status, migrants can't get basic services like healthcare, schooling, and jobs, which makes them even more vulnerable and left out of the country where they are living.
Migrants may be forced to work in dangerous conditions, for wages that are below market, or inhumane conditions, and they may have few ways to get justice or safety. Because migrants don't have any formal protections, they are at the mercy of dishonest people, which violates their basic rights and takes away their dignity.
Terrorism
People who come to the United Kingdom illegally from Pakistan are always afraid of being detained, deported, or exploited, which makes their lives scary and unsure (Sajid, 2010). Asylum seekers run the risk of being caught by immigration officials and held in dirty, overcrowded detention centers, where they may not have access to a lawyer and may have to deal with harsh circumstances. Pakistani migrants are afraid of being deported, which would change their lives and separate them from their families and communities (Jones, Ram, & Edwards, 2006). When people are deported, they often have to go back to their home country, which can be dangerous and insecure. There, they may face persecution, violence, or financial problems. Migrants can also be abused and exploited by traffickers, employers, and other people who want to take advantage of their precarious legal position for personal gain.
Laws that are Hard to Understand
Illegal immigrants from Pakistan face a huge problem, they have to figure out how to follow all the complicated immigration laws and rules. It is hard for migrants to know what their rights and responsibilities are because the laws that rule immigration are often unclear, complicated, and open to different interpretations (Power, 1979). It can be hard for migrants to get legal knowledge and resources, which makes it even harder for them to use the legal system correctly. Immigration laws are often enforced in a random and unfair way, with people coming from certain countries or racial groups being looked at more closely and being treated with suspicion (Bade, 2004).
Legislations and Policies
Laws about immigration in Pakistan
Pakistan's immigration rules are very important for controlling who comes into and leaves the country (Moore, 2011). But these laws are hard to understand and have a big effect because of things like weak rules, problems with enforcement, and the widespread effects of corruption and trafficking. International visitors must follow a lot of rules when they come to, stay in, or leave Pakistan. The name for these rules is immigration laws, some of the laws that make these rules legal are the Pakistan Citizenship Act of 1951, the Foreigners Act of 1946, and the Passport Act of 1974. These rules explain what you need to do to get visas, work permits, and permits to live in the country. They also explain how to remove and transfer people who are here illegally. However, these rules are not always followed or applied in the same way, which makes it hard to run the immigration process well. There are loopholes and gaps in the execution of immigration rules because different parts of the government don't work together, there aren't enough resources, and the bureaucracy isn't working well. These let people take advantage of and hurt newcomers.
The visa rules in Pakistan are hard to follow because they are not well organized and there is a lack of staff and resources. There is also political involvement and cheating. The Passport Office and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) are two government departments that are in charge of enforcing immigration laws. They don't always have the staff, training, or tools they need to do their jobs well, Whereas, Pakistan's borders aren't very strong. There are a lot of illegal routes that make it hard to keep track of and stop people who enter and leave the country. People who want to come to Pakistan illegally often take advantage of these flaws to get around visa checks and avoid getting caught by the police.
On top of that, immigration regulation is less honest because of graft and government interference. People in power, for instance, will often ignore problems in trade for money or political favors. People who help Pakistan migrants, come to the U.K. illegally, like traffickers, smugglers, and others, feel like they can do anything they want without getting caught because of this mentality. Even more people are moving around without permission because of this.
Because of crime and corruption, Pakistan's immigration rules aren't followed or don't work as well as they should. There is a lot of corruption in the government, police, and judicial sectors, which makes it harder to fight networks that sell people and bring them in secretly. Officials often work with people who trade people or brokers to help illegal immigrants get into the UK or to hide what they're doing for money. Trafficking groups often work across lines, using a range of routes and ways to take people to other countries. Because there aren't enough police and rules, these groups can take advantage of migrants' flaws and profit from their hopeless search for a better life.
Britain Immigration Laws
Britain's immigration rules have a big effect on how the country deals with people coming to and leaving and how it controls its borders. Over time, these laws have changed to reflect changes in society, politics, and the economy. Immigration laws, many laws such as the Immigration Act 1971 and the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 are the immigration laws and regulations of the UK. There are certain things you must do in order to arrive in the UK and stay or settle. They also teach you how to find shelter and safety as a refugee. People can move to the UK based on a number of points they have, depending on their age, skills, education, and language skills. This approach aims to bring in skilled entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners who can improve the UK economy and society. People who wish to join or remain in the UK for various reasons can also obtain different visas, such as work visas, student visas, family visas, and refugee visas. The UK government has done a lot to stop people entering the country illegally and enforce border security, for example, there will be more police at borders and immigration will be monitored in areas such as health, housing, jobs, and the rental market. Measures have also been taken to prevent illegal aliens, such as making the country a dangerous place for people who should not be there. Policies that require healthcare workers, renters, and workplaces to check people's immigrant status and report those who are in the country illegally make the environment unfriendly. Detention centers, faster removal processes, and deportation are some of the things that the UK has set up to make it easier to remove and transfer illegal immigrants. People will not be able to come to the UK illegally, with these steps. They are meant to keep the immigration system honest. Things have changed a lot for immigrants in the UK, since "Brexit," or leaving the European Union (EU). One of the most important changes is that people can no longer freely move between the UK and EU clubs. The UK now has control over its borders again and can set up a new system for immigrants based on points.
New immigration rules went into effect in January 2021. They say that people who want to work, study, or live in the UK must meet certain standards based on their skills, education, and pay levels. The new method gives priority to skilled workers, investors, and business owners who can help the UK economy and society.
Brexit has also changed the rules for EU citizens living in the UK and UK citizens who are living in the EU before the end of the Brexit transition period can apply for settled status. This gives them the right to live and work in the UK forever. UK citizens who live in EU member states have to follow new immigration rules and standards set by the countries where they live.
Asylum Laws
Asylum and refugee rules are important parts of the UK's immigration system because they protect and help people who are fleeing persecution, war, or violence in their home countries. There are, however, some complicated and difficult parts to the refugee process, especially for people from Pakistan. This part will talk about the UK's asylum rules, the problems Pakistani asylum seekers face, and the legal steps needed to ask for asylum.
UK Laws on Asylum
The Immigration Rules and several foreign agreements, such as the 1951 Refugee Convention and the European Convention on Human Rights (Shah, 2020), set the rules for asylum in the UK. The rules and steps for deciding who can get protection and refugee status in the UK are set out in these laws.
People must show a real fear of being persecuted because of their race, religion, nationality, political views, or membership in a certain social group in order to be given asylum in the UK (Jönsson, 2014). Asylum seekers have to go through a tough process that includes interviews, paper checks, and immigration officials judging their credibility.
Asylum seekers who are successful are given refugee status, which gives them legal security, the right to live in the country, and access to basic services like healthcare, education, and jobs (Smith, 2014). As well as these benefits, refugees may be able to get help reuniting with their families and integrating into UK society.
Problems for Pakistani People Seeking Asylum
Pakistani people trying to get refuge in the UK face a lot of problems and difficulties along the way. A lot of people leave Pakistan to find safety and security abroad because of the country's unstable government, religious discrimination, and racial violence (Bukhari, Jamshad, Kareem, Javed, & Sadiq, 2020).
Pakistani refugee seekers, on the other hand, often have trouble backing up their claims and showing that they really are afraid of being persecuted. Lack of written proof, cultural differences, and language problems can make it hard for them to explain their experiences and show that they are eligible for refuge (Cohen & Freedom, 2013).
Also, immigration officials and decision-makers may be skeptical and biased toward Pakistani refugee seekers. They may question the validity of their claims based on stereotypes or false beliefs about Pakistan. This doubt can lead to delays, rejections, or wrong deportations, making Pakistani asylum seekers even more vulnerable and unsafe.
Legal Process for Seeking Asylum
The legal process for asking for asylum in the UK is complicated and has many steps, such as review, decision-making, and appeal. Refuge seekers must file their claim with the Home Office as soon as they arrive in the UK and go through an initial screening interview to see if they are eligible for refuge (Black, Collyer, Skeldon, & Waddington, 2021).
Asylum seekers go to a substantive asylum interview if they are found to be eligible. This is where they give detailed accounts of their persecution and why they are seeking refuge (Sajid, 2010). Once all the evidence is given, the Home Office will decide on the asylum claim. The decision could grant asylum or not.
If someone asks for asylum and is turned down, they can challenge the decision through the immigration tribunal system. An independent judge will then look over their case. Appeals can be based on legal reasons, mistakes in the process, or new information that the Home Office hadn't looked at before (Aggarwal, 2017).
Impact of Illegal Immigration
Illegal immigration can put a lot of stress on social services, healthcare systems, and facilities in the countries that take them (Bukhari, Jamshad, Kareem, Javed, & Sadiq, 2020). It can also make things worse in the neighborhood and have different effects on the economy. We will look at how Illegal Immigration affects resources, community life, and the economy in this part.
The large number of illegal immigrants puts extra stress on the infrastructure, social services, and health care systems of the countries that take them. It's more possible that these people don't have access to formal support networks and depend on public assistance programs to meet their housing, food, and other basic needs (Marfleet & Blustein, 2011). Because of this, resources meant for citizens and legal residents may be spread too thin, making services more competitive and harder to get. Pakistani illegal immigrants may not go to the doctor because they are afraid of being caught and deported, which can leave medical problems untreated and pose a risk to public health (Jönsson, 2014). This can put a lot of pressure on healthcare resources and make problems like long wait times and packed emergency rooms even worse.
Pakistani Illegal immigrants can also put a strain on infrastructure, such as public services, housing, and transportation. More people wanting cheap housing and transportation services could cause prices to go up and options to become smaller for locals. This would make housing shortages and traffic jams in cities even worse (Power, 1979). Pakistani immigrants can also make things more difficult in communities and cause social unrest. People in the area may think that illegal immigrants are competing with them for jobs and resources, which can make people angry and hostile toward immigrant groups (Casarico, Facchini, & Frattini, 2015). This can make social differences worse and feed anti-immigrant feelings, which can lead to harassment, discrimination, and hate crimes.
Misunderstandings and fights can happen between Pakistan ex-pats and native-born groups because of language and cultural barriers (Pickus & Skerry, 2007)(Wadsworth, Dhingra, Ottaviano, & Van Reenen, 2016). Tensions can sometimes turn into protests, demonstrations, or violent acts, which makes communities even less stable and weakens social harmony.
Pakistani immigration can have both good and bad effects on the economies of the countries that accept immigrants. Illegal immigrants often work in low-paying jobs that don't require a lot of skill, like in agriculture, building, and hospitality (Ethier, 1986). This helps the economy grow and keeps people working. They may also increase demand for goods and services, which could lead to job chances for native-born workers and help local businesses. But Pakistani Illegal Immigration can also hurt the economy in other ways, like by taking away tax money, making more people use public services, and pushing pay down in some fields (Coleman & Rowthorn, 2004), because many Pakistan illegal immigrants work informally, they may be exploited and abused by employers who take advantage of their weak legal standing to pay them low wages and avoid following labor laws.
Economic Contributions of Illegal Migrants
Pakistani Illegal immigrants often make big contributions to the economies of the countries that take them in, though it's not always easy to understand how they do this because of their role in the labor market, the problems that come with exploiting workers, and their cultural and business contributions (Düvell, 2006). We will discuss more about these points to show how Pakistani Illegal Immigration has many effects on the economy.
In many parts of the economy, illegal immigrants are very important because they increase the number of workers, boost productivity, and help the economy grow. A lot of them do important, low- skilled work that is necessary in fields like agriculture, building, hospitality, and housework. These businesses would have a hard time keeping up with demand and competing in the world market without their workers (Bade, 2004).
On top of that, illegal immigrants often do things that Britishers would not do, like working on farms, cleaning homes, and doing physical work in construction (Wadsworth, Dhingra, Ottaviano, & Van Reenen, 2016). Because they fill these jobs, they help keep important parts of the economy going and keep companies running, which creates jobs for native-born workers in related roles.
Figure 7
Showing stats on Pakistani immigrant contribution to the Economy of the UK
Also, illegal immigrants increase the demand for goods and services and the amount of money people spend. This helps the economy grow and brings in money for businesses and local governments through taxes and spending.
Labor exploitation not only hurts the health and safety of immigrants, but it also messes up the job market, which makes pay and working conditions worse for everyone in the affected industries (Moore, 2011). In addition, it weakens labor laws and rules, lowering workers' protections and starting a race to the bottom when it comes to pay and rights at work.
In addition, exploiting workers keep poverty and injustice going by locking immigrants into low- paying, dangerous jobs with few chances to move up. This hurts not only the people affected directly but also society and the economy as a whole. For example, more people will need social support programs, and people will spend less. Even though they face problems, illegal immigrants bring precious culture and business to the host country. Düvell (2006) says that Pakistan expat groups add to society's culture by bringing new ideas, traditions, and experiences that make people more united and encourage cultural exchange.
A lot of illegal immigrants are resilient and have an entrepreneurial spirit. They start companies and help local economies grow through hard work, creativity, and new ideas. These companies often fill in holes in the market, target specific groups of people, and hire both immigrants and people born in the United States.
In addition, illegal immigrants often give money back to their families in their home countries. This helps reduce poverty and boost the economies of both countries. Many families depend on these money transfers because they keep them financially stable and give them chances to invest in local businesses, go to school, or get medical care (Duvell & Jordan, 2003).
Humanitarian Crisis
Illegal immigration is often linked to humanitarian issues since many migrants are fleeing abuse, violence, and poverty and are willing to take dangerous trips to find safety and opportunity (Power, 1979). This part will talk about the humanitarian aspects of Illegal Immigration. We will talk about how vulnerable immigrant groups are, how to deal with the reasons for migration, and how important it is for the whole world to work together and help each other.
Some immigrant groups are more at risk when they come in, illegally. These include women, children, orphans, and people who have been trafficked. As they go on dangerous journeys and handle hostile and unfamiliar places, these people are often more likely to be exploited, abused, and have their human rights violated.
During migration, women and children are more likely to be victims of trafficking, sexual abuse, and violence based on their gender (Aggarwal, 2017). Traffickers and crime networks force a lot of them into prostitution, housework, and other forms of exploitation. Others are abused, pushed around, and hurt while they are traveling.
During their journeys, refugees and people seeking protection also face big risks, such as being detained, and sent back to Pakistan, where they will be persecuted or abused, where they came from. Also, many refugees have physical and mental health problems because of what they've been through, such as trauma, malnutrition, and diseases that spread quickly (Bukhari, Jamshad, Kareem, Javed, & Sadiq, 2020).
Dealing with human rights violations, corruption, and bad government can also help make the world a safer and more orderly place to move. Improving accountability systems, making laws stronger, and encouraging respect for human rights can help protect the rights and dignity of Pakistani migrants and fix the societal injustices that cause them to leave their homes (Power, 1979).
Illegal immigration is a complicated problem with many sides that need answers that are coordinated and work together on a global level. International cooperation and help are needed to deal with the reasons people from Pakistan migrate, protect their rights, and encourage long-term growth in the UK. Global cooperation frameworks, like the Global Compact on Refugees and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, are great places to talk, work together, and take action on problems related to migration (Coleman & Rowthorn, 2004). These models stress how important it is to work together, share responsibility, and be strong when dealing with the problems that come with migration.
Foreign aid and development assistance are
very important for helping countries i.e. Pakistan deal with the problems that cause people to leave their homes. Donor countries and international organizations can help strengthen governance structures, promote economic growth, and improve access to basic services in the county by giving them money, technical help, and support for building up people's skills (Black, Collyer, Skeldon, & Waddington, 2021)(Bade, 2004)(Casarico, Facchini, & Frattini, 2015).
Conclusion
To sum up, Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK is a complicated and multifaceted issue that affects people, groups, and societies in many ways. This article has debated about many different aspects of Illegal Immigration, such as its problems, laws, effects, and humanitarian aspects. Let's go over the main points again, talk about what they mean for policy and study, and think about a call to action to deal with the problems that Illegal Immigration causes.
People from Pakistan come to the UK illegally, because of the country's unequal economy, unstable government, and social unrest, which forces people to take dangerous trips in search of better chances and safety. The trip is full of problems, such as physical and geographical dangers, money problems, legal issues, adjusting to new social and cultural norms, and humanitarian concerns. Even with these problems, illegal immigrants help the economy, fill important jobs, and make host countries' cultures stronger (Cohen & Freedom, 2013). But their presence also puts a strain on resources, makes neighborhood problems worse, and creates economic and humanitarian problems. Illegal immigration affects more than just the people who come here. It also affects economies, societies, and neighborhoods. To deal with the reasons people migrate, make laws stronger, protect migrants' rights, and encourage long-term growth in countries that send migrants i.e. Pakistan (Power, 1979), policymakers need to take a broad, evidence-based approach. Also, research is very important for helping to make policy choices, find the best ways to do things, and judge how well interventions work to deal with problems caused by Illegal Immigration by Pakistani expatriates.
Dealing with the problems that come from Illegal Immigration requires communities, governments, civil society groups, and foreign agencies to work together. Improving border security, fighting human trafficking, and abuse, and supporting legal ways to migrate must be top priorities for policymakers. Investing in education, health care, and social services is also important for helping newcomers and host communities fit in and be healthy (Bade, 2004). Promoting social harmony and building strong communities also requires creating societies that are open to everyone and free from bias and discrimination.
Cite this article
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APA : Waheed, S., Tahir, M., & Jamal, A. (2024). The Arduous Journey: Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK. Global Legal Studies Review, IX(I), 15-31. https://doi.org/10.31703/glsr.2024(IX-I).02
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CHICAGO : Waheed, Shabana, Muhammad Tahir, and Atef Jamal. 2024. "The Arduous Journey: Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK." Global Legal Studies Review, IX (I): 15-31 doi: 10.31703/glsr.2024(IX-I).02
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HARVARD : WAHEED, S., TAHIR, M. & JAMAL, A. 2024. The Arduous Journey: Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK. Global Legal Studies Review, IX, 15-31.
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MHRA : Waheed, Shabana, Muhammad Tahir, and Atef Jamal. 2024. "The Arduous Journey: Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK." Global Legal Studies Review, IX: 15-31
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MLA : Waheed, Shabana, Muhammad Tahir, and Atef Jamal. "The Arduous Journey: Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK." Global Legal Studies Review, IX.I (2024): 15-31 Print.
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OXFORD : Waheed, Shabana, Tahir, Muhammad, and Jamal, Atef (2024), "The Arduous Journey: Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK", Global Legal Studies Review, IX (I), 15-31
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TURABIAN : Waheed, Shabana, Muhammad Tahir, and Atef Jamal. "The Arduous Journey: Illegal Immigration from Pakistan to the UK." Global Legal Studies Review IX, no. I (2024): 15-31. https://doi.org/10.31703/glsr.2024(IX-I).02