Rising trend of youth unemployment signals a grave social unrest

The 2022 Bangladesh Sample Vital Statistics Report paints a concerning picture of a youth inactivity crisis, with 41 per cent of those aged between 15 and 24 neither pursuing education, employment, nor undergoing job training.

This alarming statistic, demanding urgent attention, reveals a significant gender disparity, with 61.71 per cent of girls affected compared to 18.59 per cent of boys.

Rooted in societal norms, including early marriages and limited access to education, this issue requires concerted efforts from all sectors of society.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals emphasize the need to reduce youth unemployment rates, yet Bangladesh sees a rising trend in inactive youth.

This isn’t merely a statistical concern; it signals a potential for social unrest. Economists attribute the crisis to factors like insufficient education, lack of job skills, and a scarcity of employment opportunities.

The vicious cycle of inactive youth contributes to mental health issues; drug addiction, domestic violence, and a concerning tilt towards extremism, as outlined by the Citizen’s Platform for the Implementation of SDGs.

The Global Employment Policy Review-2023 by the International Labor Organization reveals lower youth unemployment rates in developed countries compared to Bangladesh, where the global rate of inactive youth slightly decreased from 25 per cent in 2020 to 23.5 per cent in 2022.

Addressing the root causes of this crisis is crucial. Early marriage’s impact on girls’ education and subsequent employment opportunities demands targeted policies. Bridging the gap between skills taught in educational institutions and job market demands is essential.

Prioritizing technical and vocational education equips youth with skills for the evolving job landscape.

Regional disparities in inactive youth rates underscore the need for tailored interventions.

The rising tide of inactive youth in Bangladesh is a clarion call for comprehensive action. Policymakers, educators, and society must collaborate to unlock the immense potential of the youth, securing a prosperous future.

It’s time to invest in our youth, not just as a demographic statistic but as the driving force propelling our nation towards progress and prosperity.