Labour market participation

The EU’s position within the G20 across various dimensions of socioeconomic development has changed since the turn of the 21st century. This policy brief analyses trends in human development, labour market participation, digital adoption and environmental sustainability among the G20 members to assess the EU’s standing within the group. It also investigates whether G20 members are converging in respect of these dimensions to determine whether the differences between them are narrowing or widening. The findings reveal a mixed picture, with the EU maintaining a high level of human development but experiencing a relative decline in some dimensions vis-à-vis other G20 members. The analysis underscores the importance of addressing these trends and leveraging the opportunities presented by the green and digital transition.

Since the early 2000s, the EU has faced persistent challenges in integrating young people into the labour market. The Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately impacted youth employment prospects. This background paper explores youth labour market integration within the framework of the digitalisation and labour shortages. It discusses the implications of the digital revolution, which could potentially provide tools for empowerment for young people or be a source of exclusion for those lacking digital skills. It also addresses the impact of labour shortages on youth employment opportunities.