Diplomats serving in foreign mission abroad are some of the most esteemed civil servants but they have often remained immune from disciplinary action. There are numerous incidents by Pakistani expatriates and citizens traveling abroad when embassies have not helped them in times of distress.
The prime minister took the rather unusual step of giving a dressing down to Pakistani envoys deployed in various countries abroad and blamed them not catering for the welfare of the expatriate community. The envoys were called out for their callous and ‘colonial mindset’ particularly while dealing labourers. Many incidents have been reported in Saudi Arabia and UAE. These countries are home to sizable Pakistani community working as labourers or other blue-collared jobs who have no knowledge of legal procedures. Embassies are supposed to facilitate them in all matters and provide consular access which is not often seen at our missions abroad.
Foreign services officials are certainly miffed at the prime minister’s censure which was broadcasted on TV and shared on social media. It has led to angst and demoralization and retired civil servants think the premier went a bit too far. Others thinks that prime minister was within his mandate but it should not have done for the world to watch. It is certain that prime minister had made an attempt to resolve the issues faced by our expat community abroad.
The government has defended the prime minister’s action. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has questioned why action shouldn’t be taken against officials for blocking access to embassies and not serving our citizens. He said it is the first time that government has sided with weak against the powerful and is taking action. Yet the prime minister’s remarks are seen a censure of the entire foreign services.
The prime minister has taken various steps for overseas Pakistanis but he has also commended the diplomats for repatriating citizens amid the pandemic and in times of needs. This should go without saying that the diplomats are mandated to assist citizens along with maintaining diplomatic relations. The expat community not only bring remittances but also have rights which must be ensured. There should be a mechanism for holding senior diplomats accountable for indifference and callousness.
