Unemployment and idleness among young Flemish people have halved over the past decade, De Standaard reports.
Data from Flemish research institute Steunpunt Werk demonstrates a decline in those categorised as 'NEET' – not in employment, education or training. Only 5.4% of 15 to 24-year-olds fell into this group last year in contrast to the 4.6% the previous year, and the significant 10.5% in 2013. Remarkably, only three European countries have better statistics.
"We have made considerable strides to aid this overlooked group," commented Ines Penders of Steunpunt Werk. Since 2022, the Flemish employment service VDAB has ramped up support for these 'NEETs' in collaboration with local youth organisations.
However, Penders warns this does not mean that the job is done. "Individuals born in non-European countries, with low education levels or enduring disabilities are more likely to end up in such a 'NEET' situation. We cannot abandon these young people."
"The proactive policies of VDAB have clearly positively influenced youth employment rates," employment economist Stijn Baert observed. He added that concurrent with the country's economic recovery since the Covid-19 crisis and an abundance of job vacancies, even young individuals without secondary education qualifications have been able to find jobs relatively easily.
