ISLAMABAD, September 10, 2026(Ghufran): The Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized the launch of Roots Beneath the Snow, an audiovisual book authored by Mian Waheed Ud Din.
The book explores the experiences of Pakistani migrants in Norway, their journey of integration, and their continuing links with Pakistan. It also highlights the social, cultural and family challenges faced by migrants while building new lives abroad.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director of CSP, said discussions about overseas Pakistanis often focus on figures such as the size of the diaspora, remittances and economic contributions. She noted that behind these figures are people with personal experiences, memories, ambitions and strong connections with their homeland.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the ISSI Board of Governors, said Roots Beneath the Snow combines research and storytelling to present the history of Pakistani migration to Norway. He noted that the book covers the arrival of Pakistani migrants in the 1970s, their struggles, economic progress, family reunification and efforts to balance their cultural values with life in Norwegian society.
Representing Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Secretary Workers’ Welfare Fund Zulfiqar Ahmed emphasized the strong links overseas Pakistanis maintain with Pakistan through remittances, investment, knowledge and skills.
He stressed the need for the state to ensure that Pakistanis seeking employment abroad have the right skills and can pursue opportunities through safe, legal and dignified means.
Norway’s Ambassador-designate to Pakistan, Ambassador Sigvald Hauge, highlighted the history of Pakistani migration to Norway since the late 1960s. He appreciated the Pakistani community’s contributions to Norway’s economic, professional and cultural life and described the diaspora as an important bridge between Pakistan and Norway.
Author Mian Waheed Ud Din said the book was based on his research into the integration of Pakistani immigrants in Norway. He described the work as “faction”, combining fact and fiction, and said its innovative audiovisual format includes 36 chapters and 48 QR-linked videos.
He explained that the book also examines how the Pakistani community’s sense of belonging has evolved over time, including the gradual acceptance of Norway as a home while maintaining links with Pakistan.
The book’s reviewers, Air Chief Marshal (Retd.) Sohail Aman and Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, highlighted the cultural, family and identity challenges linked to migration and integration. They stressed the importance of maintaining family relationships and cultural values while respecting the laws, values and social norms of the adopted country.
They also noted that successful integration does not mean giving up one’s heritage and that overseas Pakistanis can play an important role in building bridges between Pakistan and their adopted societies.
The event concluded with the formal launch of Roots Beneath the Snow, followed by a group photograph.