Human resources in Pakistan 1951-2006

Abstract

This thesis looks at the effect of socio-economic development on the size, composition and the proportion of population in the labour force. This analysis is mainly based on the decennial Population Censuses 1951-81 and the Housing, Economic and Demographic Survey-1973. It was found that the proportion of economically active population is gradually reducing as a result of advances in social and economic life in Pakistan. In the past many Pakistanis have sought employment in overseas countries which offers better opportunities. However, the international economic and political climate suggest limits to the absorption of Pakistani workers in the outside world. Education, urbanization and structural changes in the economy are the major determinants of participation in economic activities. These factors are also responsible for occupational mobility (from traditional to modern occupations) for both the males and females. Female participation in economic activities is believed to be understated in almost all the major censuses and surveys. There is a tendency for the female activity rates in Pakistan to shift from the late peak to the early peak pattern. Demographic variables suggest that rapid population growth would put more strain on limited national resources. This will adversely affect the economic growth and employment expansion programmes. Effective fertility control and employment expansion policies are needed to provide productive employment to the growing labour force.