Technical Report

The Impact of Active Labour Market Programmes on Youth

This joint ILO and World Bank report synthesizes over three decades of impact evaluation evidence across 62 countries to assess the impact of Active Labour Market Programmes (ALMPs) on young people's employment and earnings outcomes.

This report presents the most comprehensive systematic review of youth employment interventions to date, drawing on evidence from 228 studies across 62 countries. Authored jointly by the International Labour Organization and the World Bank Group, it examines what types of active labour market programmes (ALMPs) work best for young people, for whom, and under what conditions.

The analysis synthesizes over 5,000 treatment effect estimates covering skills training, entrepreneurship promotion, employment services, wage subsidies, and public works programmes. Key findings show that well-designed ALMPs have a measurable positive impact on youth employment and earnings — particularly in low- and middle-income countries — with stronger results for young women, disadvantaged youth, and participants under 25. The report also provides actionable guidance on programme design, implementation partnerships, certification, and cost-effectiveness.

An essential resource for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers working on youth employment and workforce development.