Insights from Eurostat and EILD’s Commitment Through Upcoming Erasmus+ Projects
The latest Eurostat data for 2024 reveals a concerning picture: 11.1% of young people in the European Union (aged 15–29) are classified as NEET — neither in employment, education nor training. This figure represents more than a statistic; it highlights a structural challenge affecting Europe’s labour markets, educational systems, and social cohesion.
A Closer Look at the Numbers
While the EU average stands at 11.1%, several countries face significantly higher NEET rates.
Notable examples include:
- Romania – 15.7%
- Italy – 15.2%
- Lithuania – 14.7%
- Greece – 14.2%
These elevated numbers reflect a combination of socio-economic pressures, skill gaps, limited access to training opportunities, and unequal transitions from education to the labour market.
In contrast, countries like the Netherlands (4.9%) and Sweden (6.3%) show that lower NEET rates are achievable when strong youth policies, accessible upskilling pathways, and coordinated employment support systems are in place.
Why the NEET Challenge Matters
The NEET rate is more than an indicator of youth disengagement. High NEET levels have direct consequences on:
- Youth well-being and mental health
- Long-term employability and skill development
- Economic productivity and innovation potential
- Social inclusion and equal opportunities
Young people who remain disconnected for long periods are at higher risk of social exclusion and reduced future prospects. Addressing this challenge is essential for Europe’s resilience and growth.
EILD’s Response: Building Pathways Through Erasmus+
At the European Institute for Local Development, tackling youth exclusion and skills mismatches is at the core of our mission. The new Eurostat data further strengthens our commitment to designing impactful programmes that support young people’s transition into education, training, and employment.
As we prepare to launch several new Erasmus+ initiatives, our focus will be on:
✔ Strengthening digital and transversal skills
We are developing programmes that equip young people with the competencies needed for emerging labour markets, including digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and soft skills.
✔ Enhancing mobility and cross-border learning
Erasmus+ provides unique tools to allow young people to learn, train, and collaborate across Europe — experiences that significantly improve employability and confidence.
✔ Supporting vulnerable and underrepresented groups
We aim to reduce disparities by ensuring that opportunities reach young people facing social, economic, or geographic disadvantages.
✔ Building local ecosystems for youth empowerment
By working with municipalities, NGOs, universities, and businesses, we foster partnerships that create real, sustainable pathways into education and employment.
Looking Ahead
The data is clear: Europe must act decisively to support its young people. Through research, collaboration, and innovative Erasmus+ project development, EILD is committed to being part of the solution.
We believe that by investing in youth today, we strengthen the foundations for a more inclusive, skilled, and resilient Europe tomorrow.