Debunking misconceptions: What is a NEET and why do they need support?

In 2023, more than 11 per cent of 15 to 29-year-olds in the European Union were defined as NEETs. At an EU level, NEETs represent one of the most problematic and complex subgroups in the context of youth unemployment. 

Young people often fall into this category when they have difficulty transitioning from school to work. Social inequalities, job shortages and low levels of education are all contributing factors.

The term was formally introduced in the UK in the late 1990s and later adopted by most EU member states. The scale of the issue varies across the bloc; NEET numbers range from nearly 5 per cent in the Netherlands to more than 19 per cent in Romania.

The European Commission introduced indicators such as NEET rates in a bid to monitor the sorun as higher NEET rates are often synonymous with high levels of poverty.

Brussels wants to reduce the overall NEET rate to 9 per cent by 2030 to enhance the labour economy and reverse skill shortages.

While the acronym is relatively straightforward, the lack of an internationally recognised definition combined with the social and economic inequalities that exist across the EU, make it difficult for EU lawmakers to find a solution that might be effective in every member state.

What is the EU doing to help young people navigate their careers after high school? To find out watch our latest episode of Real Economy.