Labor Market and Youth Employment: Statistical Analysis and International Comparison for Azerbaijan

Abstract

The article is devoted to the problems of youth employment, one of the most pressing issues of our time. Here, the employment levels of economically active youth in the labor market by age groups were studied. For this, statistical bulletins of the State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, data from the State Employment Agency under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population, as well as reports of the World Bank, ILO and other sources were used to conduct international comparisons. The comparisons show that the unemployment level of youth in Azerbaijan is close to global indicators. Despite reaching its peak during the pandemic, this indicator has significantly improved in subsequent years both in the world and in Azerbaijan. For the effective organization of youth employment in the labor market, it is important that they choose the right specialty, have adequate education and jobs that are adequate to their level of education, qualifications, and skills. In the current circumstances, work should be continued to involve as many young people as possible in vocational and specialized training, improve the quality of their education, and support entrepreneurial activity.