World Immigration News

(Atlantic Council)South Asian governments should look east for opportunities for young workers

Release Date: 2026-10-07
Media: Atlantic Council
Summary: The article argues that South Asia’s vast youth population should be viewed not simply as an employment challenge, but as a strategic labor asset for aging Asian economies.

Pakistan has around 160 million people under the age of 30, while roughly half of Bangladesh’s population is also under 30. Together, the two countries have an estimated 260 million young people. Meanwhile, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand are facing aging populations and growing labor shortages, increasing their need for foreign workers in sectors such as caregiving, manufacturing, construction, and services.

Bangladesh has begun actively turning this demographic advantage into an overseas employment strategy. Its new government is working to establish Bangladesh as Thailand’s fifth major labor-source country. Discussions have included recruitment through Bangladesh’s state employment agency, employer-paid recruitment costs, and standardized contracts in workers’ own language. Pakistan, despite having similar demographic potential, has yet to pursue such opportunities with comparable urgency.

The article also argues that South Asian countries should diversify labor migration beyond the Gulf. Gulf states will remain important destinations and sources of remittances, but aging East and Southeast Asian economies offer additional opportunities. Developing new labor corridors with countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Thailand could reduce dependence on traditional destinations.

However, successful labor migration requires more than vocational training. Workers also need language ability, cultural awareness, communication skills, hygiene, workplace etiquette, road discipline, and an understanding of local social norms. Pre-departure cultural and linguistic preparation can help workers integrate more quickly, improve relations with employers and communities, and strengthen the reputation of workers from their home country.

The central message is that aging Asian economies need workers, while South Asia has an enormous young labor force. Governments that deliberately connect these complementary demographic realities through bilateral agreements, skills development, and integration-oriented preparation will be best positioned to turn their youth populations into long-term economic opportunities. Bangladesh has already begun moving in this direction, offering a potential model for Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and other South Asian countries.
Tags: Asia

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