Global youth unemployment has reached its lowest point in 15 years, according to a new report from the International Labour Organisation (ILO). Despite recent progress, the situation for young people remains uneven, with significant challenges ahead, especially in Asia.
The ILO’s ‘Global Employment Trends for Youth 2024’ report reveals that 64.9 million young people aged 15 to 24 were unemployed last year, marking a 13% unemployment rate. Notably, in regions like the Arab States, East Asia, South-East Asia, and the Pacific, youth unemployment rates in 2023 exceeded those in 2019.
The report highlights a positive trend where young men have seen a greater recovery in the job market compared to young women. In 2023, youth unemployment rates were nearly identical for both genders—12.9% for young women and 13% for young men—whereas, prior to the pandemic, young men faced higher rates. However, the global rate of young women not in education, employment, or training (NEET) was double that of young men, at 28.1% versus 13.1%.
Gilbert F. Houngbo, ILO Director-General, emphasised the need for equal opportunities: ‘The report reminds us that opportunities for young people are highly unequal. Many young women and those from minority backgrounds still face significant barriers. Without equal access to education and decent jobs, millions are missing out on a better future.’
The ILO urges collective action to address young people’s work-related anxieties and to foster hope for a brighter future. The report encourages young people to advocate for change: ‘You have the power to influence policy and advocate for decent work. Know your rights and invest in your skills. Be part of the change needed for a socially just and inclusive world.’
The report also flags concerning trends: In 2023, one in five young people globally were NEET, with two-thirds of this group being female. Furthermore, opportunities for decent jobs remain scarce, particularly in emerging and developing economies. Over half of young workers in these regions are employed informally, with many facing insecure and temporary job conditions.
Houngbo stressed the importance of stable employment: ‘None of us can look forward to a stable future when millions of young people lack decent work and face insecurity. Peaceful societies depend on stability, inclusion, and social justice—all of which are underpinned by decent work for youth.’
As the most educated youth cohort ever faces these challenges, the global community must intensify efforts to provide meaningful employment and ensure a secure future for the next generation.
