SOCIAL RISKS AND BARRIERS TO YOUTH EMPLOYMENT: THE NEET GROUP, PRECARIZATION, AND DIGITAL INEQUALITY

Abstract

In the context of digital transformation, the youth labor market is undergoing significant changes, creating both new opportunities and potential threats. The spread of digital technologies is stimulating the development of flexible forms of employment, but also leading to increased instability in employment relationships. In this context, the education system must not only provide academic training but also develop digital competencies that will help young people successfully adapt to the demands of the modern labor market. To mitigate the risks of digitalization, it is necessary to improve educational programs and the regulatory framework for youth employment. The article analyzes the main characteristics of young people excluded from employment and education, so-called NEETs (not employed, not working, not studying). The author demonstrates that in modern society, high school graduates form the NEET generation and remain in the care of their parents. In various countries around the world, this social group accounts for a quarter of young people under the age of  29. The main reason for this social process is the discrepancy between the quality of educational preparation of educational institutions graduates and the structure and requirements of the labor market.