NEETs—A Human Resource with a High Potential for the Sustainable Development of the European Union

Abstract

The 2030 Agenda for sustainable development includes 17 goals and this paper is focused on the fourth—ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all and on the eighth—promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all. NEETs are those between 15 and 34 years old that are not in employment, education or training. The potential of these youngsters is very high and European countries should focus on this aspect more and more. The problem could be seen also as a corporate social responsibility direction and be targeted both by public and private entities. The Eurostat data show that the number of NEETs is increasing. The main objectives of the article are to analyze the data in European countries, establish the causes of this phenomenon and identify adequate strategies for integrating NEETs in society in order to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda. The research methodology includes the analysis of the statistics at European level and a qualitative research consisting in interviews with specialists working with NEETs or with youngsters in risk of becoming NEETs. The results of the research will consist in offering solutions for reducing the number of NEETs and achieve a better inclusion in the society.