What young people want: Global survey paints grim picture of future of work

Young people worldwide are voicing their concerns about job stability, skills needed for the green transition, and employability, as revealed by the world's largest survey of young individuals on the occasion of International Youth Day 2023. With over 700,000 respondents, 40 percent have highlighted education, skills, and employment as crucial pathways to future security. Delving deeper into these findings, Maziko Matemvu, President of the Young Feminist Network, provided valuable insights on the aspirations and challenges faced by young people today. The survey shed light on the vulnerabilities faced by young individuals in low and middle-income countries, exacerbated by factors such as pandemic disruptions, food insecurities, mental health issues, and the impact of climate change. A key focus of the study was the common needs expressed by different age groups, with safety and a supportive environment emerging as essential requirements. Notably, while cleanliness, access to good roads, and free sanitary napkins were highlighted by adolescent respondents, the overarching themes revolved around education, health, and job opportunities. One striking revelation from the report was the overwhelming concern about job stability among the respondents, reflecting the harsh reality of high youth unemployment rates, particularly in Africa. Matemvu emphasized the importance of not just creating job opportunities for young people but also equipping them with the necessary skills and resources to generate their employment prospects. Despite some progress in certain regions, the looming threat of rising conflicts poses a significant barrier to youth entering the job market and adversely affects their mental well-being. Addressing the climate crisis, the survey exposed a glaring gap in young people's preparedness for the transition to a green economy, with 60 percent lacking essential skills for this shift. Matemvu called for increased investments and commitments from policymakers to support the development of youth capabilities to actively engage in climate change discussions as proactive stakeholders. In a call to action directed at the youth demographic, Matemvu urged young individuals to join the '1.8 Billion Campaign,' recognizing their collective power as the world's largest cohort. The campaign aims to advocate for adolescents' needs through data-driven approaches, heightened political commitments, and financial support, culminating in a Global Forum for Adolescents scheduled for October 2023. By participating in this initiative, young people have the opportunity to influence policy frameworks, enhance service delivery, and secure funding to promote overall well-being, particularly among vulnerable communities. In conclusion, the survey findings underscore the urgency of addressing the pressing concerns of young individuals globally, ranging from job insecurity to climate adaptation. By uniting in advocacy efforts and actively participating in initiatives like the '1.8 Billion Campaign,' young people can amplify their voices, drive policy change, and shape a more inclusive and sustainable future for generations to come.