A new report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) reveals significant progress in the recovery of global youth employment following the pandemic. However, despite this positive trend, approximately 65 million young people remain unemployed, with women and those in developing regions facing the most severe challenges.

The ILO's Global Employment Trends for Youth 2024 report highlights a notable decrease in the global youth unemployment rate, which has dropped to its lowest level in 15 years. This decrease signals a substantial rebound from the economic disruptions caused by COVID-19. Currently, the global youth unemployment rate stands at 13%.

Despite this progress, the recovery has been uneven. The report underscores that women and young individuals in developing regions are disproportionately affected. In 2023, about 20% of young people were categorized as not in employment, education, or training (NEET), with two-thirds of these NEETs being female. This stark gender disparity points to ongoing systemic issues and highlights the challenges faced by young women in particular.

One of the critical issues contributing to high unemployment rates is the mismatch between educational qualifications and job market requirements. The ILO report notes that as the number of educated youth rises, it often surpasses the demand for highly skilled jobs. This mismatch is exacerbated by rapid advancements in technology, including digital and AI fields, leaving many young people struggling to acquire the necessary skills for today’s job market.

Regional disparities are also significant. While North America and Europe have maintained relatively low youth unemployment rates, other regions have experienced setbacks. Youth unemployment rates in the Arab states, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific have increased since 2019. In Africa, which is experiencing a demographic shift known as the ‘youthquake,’ unemployment rates remain alarmingly high, particularly in North Africa, and a substantial proportion of young adults in sub-Saharan Africa are employed in insecure jobs.

Gilbert F. Houngbo, ILO’s Director-General, emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges to ensure stability, inclusion, and social justice. “Peaceful societies rely on three core ingredients: stability, inclusion, and social justice; and decent work for the youth is at the heart of all three,” Houngbo said.

The World Economic Forum’s report, Shaping the Future of Learning: The Role of AI in Education 4.0, highlights the urgent need to address global shortages in digital skills and AI talent. The report advocates for updating educational systems to align better with the evolving demands of the job market and for equipping young people with the skills needed for future careers.

To address these issues, experts call for a collaborative approach involving policymakers, educators, and employers. Focused efforts are needed to improve job creation, especially for young women, and to address skills mismatches and regional disparities. By working together, stakeholders can help ensure that more young people secure stable and meaningful employment.