The recent report of the International Labor Organization (ILO) reveals an alarming global figure: 41.3% of young people in the world are in the situation of “ninis”, that is, neither working nor studying nor receiving training. This statistic highlights a worrying gap in the integration of young people into the labor market and the education system, reflecting an increase in economic and social inequality.
The report highlights that young women are particularly affected, with 28.2% of them in the “ninis” category, compared to 13.1% of young men. This gender gap highlights unequal pressure on women in the employment and educational context. The disparity is a reflection of structural problems in the way opportunities and support are distributed to different demographic groups.
Technological advances, such as automation and artificial intelligence, are playing a crucial role in this trend. While these innovations have increased productivity and production, they have also reduced the share of labor income in the global economy. This technological dynamic has generated a growing gap between the benefits gained from technological advances and their equitable distribution among the population.
The ILO report notes that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are making slow progress as the 2030 deadline approaches. The lack of progress in key areas such as youth employment and education reflects the urgent need for comprehensive policies that address these challenges. Without such policies, the risk that inequality will deepen and the SDGs will not be met increases significantly.
To mitigate these problems, it is essential to implement strategies that ensure a fair distribution of the benefits of technological progress. The creation of policies that promote labor inclusion, education and lifelong learning can help integrate young people into the labor market and reduce the inequality gap. Without decisive action, the global landscape could face greater inequality and stagnation in progress towards the SDGs.