From The Express Tribune · SHAHRAM HAQ · · 1m 20s
AI and Gulf policy shifts threaten migrant jobs
AI and Gulf policy changes risk up to 70% of migrant jobs in region.
In brief
AI and Gulf policy changes risk up to 70% of migrant jobs in region. Economists warn AI and shifting Gulf labor policies could reduce migrant jobs for 70% of workers, urging urgent action on declining employment opportunities. Originally reported by The Express Tribune.
AI and labor policy shifts
Economists warn AI and changing labor policies in Gulf states could affect up to seven out of ten jobs traditionally taken by migrant workers.
Dr Nasir Iqbal's warning
Dr Nasir Iqbal of the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics said 2026 reshaped migration as conflict and AI changed how Gulf states approach migrant labor.
Migration conference details
The Fourth International Conference on 'Future Drivers of International Migration from Asia' was held at Lahore School of Economics.
Tighter rules for low-skilled workers
Francoise De Bel-Air noted increasing restrictions on traditional routes for low- and semi-skilled workers.
Asia-Gulf migration resilience
Froilan Malit called the Asia-Gulf corridor the most resilient labor migration system in the Global South.
Nepal's migration dependency
Nepal relies on migration with remittances contributing 33% of its GDP.
Migration pressures persist
Pakistan and Nepal face high migration pressures due to demographic shifts and limited domestic opportunities.
The short version
Economists warn AI and shifting Gulf labor policies could reduce migrant jobs for 70% of workers, urging urgent action on declining employment opportunities.
