Global unemployment among people aged 15 to 24 has reached 67 million [1].
The increase highlights a growing vulnerability for the youngest members of the global workforce as they face a volatile transition into professional life. This trend suggests that traditional entry-level roles are disappearing or evolving faster than educational systems can adapt.
According to data from the International Labour Organization, the global unemployment rate for this age group was 12.4% in 2024 [2]. This represents a slight increase from the 12.3% rate recorded in 2023 [3]. The data was released on July 12, 2025 [4].
Several converging factors contributed to the rise in joblessness. The organization said weaker economic growth and ongoing geopolitical tensions were primary drivers. These macro-economic pressures have slowed the creation of new job vacancies, limiting the options available for first-time job seekers.
Technological shifts are also playing a significant role in the current labor market. The International Labour Organization said the advancement of artificial intelligence was a key factor in the rising unemployment figures [4]. As AI automates tasks previously handled by junior staff, the barrier to entry for young workers has increased.
While the percentage increase appears small, the raw number of 67 million individuals without work underscores a systemic crisis. The combination of slow hiring and rapid automation creates a gap that threatens long-term economic stability for an entire generation.
“Global unemployment among people aged 15 to 24 has reached 67 million.”
The rise in youth unemployment reflects a structural shift in the global economy where AI-driven automation is replacing entry-level cognitive tasks. When combined with geopolitical instability, this creates a 'skills gap' that may lead to permanent scarring of the workforce, where young adults fail to gain the foundational experience necessary for mid-career advancement.
