Solving the Arab world’s approaching youthquake

Outlet: Arab News

Language: English

Abstract: The Arab world faces a critical socioeconomic challenge as its predominantly youthful population — two-thirds under 30 — rapidly approaches adulthood. By 2030, the ability of Arab nations to empower their youth will determine the region's long-term prosperity and stability. However, persistent governance failures and insufficient reforms have hindered the systemic transformations necessary to harness this demographic’s potential.

Key solutions include aligning education with labor market demands, addressing financial exclusion, promoting gender empowerment, formalizing informal employment sectors, and fostering cultural shifts to value diverse career paths. Educational reform, such as vocational training and industry partnerships, is essential to counter rampant youth unemployment and bridge skill gaps. Expanding financial access through microfinance and regulatory reforms can invigorate youth-led entrepreneurship, while increasing women’s workforce participation and addressing educational disparities could unlock significant economic growth.

Formalizing informal employment sectors and ensuring dignity across all forms of labor are vital to creating a motivated and secure workforce. Together, these strategies represent a comprehensive approach to leverage the Arab region’s youthful population for sustainable development. Far from being a crisis, this demographic "youthquake" offers an unprecedented opportunity to transform the region’s future.

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