Our youth future

Never before has the world been home to so many young people. At 1.8 billion, this generation represents an unprecedented potential for global economic and social progress. With over 60% of its population under the age of 30, the Euro-Mediterranean is one of the youngest regions in the world. At the same time, with an average of 30% youth unemployment, two to three times higher than for adults, the Euro-Mediterranean region also has among the highest rates of youth unemployment worldwide. The Union for the Mediterranean has therefore placed youth at the heart of its action, focusing on empowering young people in the Euro-Mediterranean region, enhancing their employability and skills, and engaging them as full partners in its activities. Through its Positive Agenda for Youth, the UfM gives a strong impulse to youth engagement in areas of regional priority in view of unleashing their potential as agents for change.

Author: Union for the Mediterranean

May 2019