Promoting decent work for youth in BRICS countries

The promotion of decent work for youth has been identified by BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) as an overarching theme of focus of the inter-regional cooperation mechanism that was established in 2006.

This background paper was prepared by Gianni Rosas (ILO Senior Employment Specialist and focal point for youth employment in Europe and Central Asia) for the first BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting that will take place in Ufa (Russian Federation) on 25 and 26 January 2016.

It examines youth labour market trends in Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, highlighting the persistent challenges young people face in accessing decent work despite significant progress in education and economic development.

The paper analyzes demographic changes, labour force participation, employment, unemployment, informality and the growing number of young people neither in employment nor education or training (NEET). It shows that young workers are disproportionately affected by unemployment, insecure and informal employment, skills mismatches and difficult school-to-work transitions.

Building on this evidence, the paper proposes an integrated policy framework centred on job creation, investment in quality education and skills, active labour market policies, entrepreneurship promotion, labour rights and social protection. It emphasizes the importance of coordinated action by governments, employers' and workers' organizations, the private sector and international partners, arguing that social dialogue and partnerships are essential to creating sustainable opportunities for youth.

The report also analyzes the BRICS priorities, the ILO's Decent Work Agenda and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, positioning youth employment as a strategic driver of inclusive economic growth and social cohesion.