FROM PASSPORT TO PAYCHECK: AN INTEGRATED HUMAN RESOURCE (HR)-MIGRATION FRAMEWORK FOR PAKISTANI OVERSEAS WORKERS AND THE UNSEEN GAPS IN RECRUITMENT, TRAINING, AND REINTEGRATION

Abstract

This study addresses critical and underexplored dimensions of Pakistan's overseas employment system by proposing an integrated human resource (HR) framework that spans recruitment, skill development, employment abroad, and reintegration. Employing a qualitative meta-synthesis of academic literature, policy reports, and case studies, the research identifies systemic inefficiencies in HR practices, particularly highlighting the disjuncture between skill development programs and host-country labor market needs, insufficient post-deployment support mechanisms, and underrepresentation of women and rural workers. The findings culminate in the development of a novel Human Resource-Migration Cycle Model accompanied by strategic policy recommendations aimed at enhancing the governance of labor migration from Pakistan.