Youth Unemployment in the European Union: An Analysis of Causes, Consequences and Possible Ways Forwards

Abstract

The global financial crises of 2007-2008 continue to negatively affect the economies and societies of the European Union (EU). With some exceptions, economic growth is low and youth unemployment figures are high, resulting in significant economic and social costs to nations across the EU. This paper deals with the difficulties of measuring youth unemployment and the extent of the youth unemployment crises in the EU. The paper also investigates the perceptions of the origins of youth unemployment, the social and economic consequences for unemployed youth and EU countries, and the policies that have been implemented in response to the youth unemployment crisis. The question of what is effective in the fight against youth unemployment is raised in this short investigation. Whilst other policy strategies also have their strengths, dual Vocational Education and Training (VET) programmes appear to be particularly effective. Countries with an integrated dual VET system, such as Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Denmark, have significantly lower youth unemployment than countries with other forms of training and education. The paper argues that the dual VET system, though perhaps difficult to replicate in all EU nations, represents a key strategy to combat youth unemployment.