Active Labour Market Programs Improve Employment and Earnings of Young People

This ILO-WB Policy brief examines the impact of youth-targeted active labour market programs (ALMPs) on employment and earnings, based on a systematic review of evaluations conducted from 1990 to 2021.

A systematic review by the World Bank and the International Labour Organization (ILO) combines results from evaluations of 220 youth-focused active labour market programs (ALMPs) conducted around the world since 1990. The evidence shows that investments in labour market programs for young people pay off: ALMPs significantly improve their employment and earnings prospects, particularly in Low- and Middle-income countries. Youth at greatest risk of labour market exclusion often benefit the most. To guide future program design, the report identifies features of ALMPs that are associated with positive impacts on youth.