Worrying increase of "NEETs" among young people in Peru: an urgent challenge to face

The latest reports from the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) have shown encouraging figures regarding economic growth and job creation in the country. However, despite these positive indicators, there is a sector of the population that seems to not be benefiting from this positive trend: the "ni-nis" youth, meaning those who neither study nor work. According to the latest available figures, the percentage of young people between 15 and 29 years old in this situation has increased, reaching a concerning 18.2%, which represents more than one and a half million young people in this condition. This figure is the highest recorded since 2006, excluding the impacts of the pandemic, highlighting a structural problem that needs to be urgently addressed. The regions with the highest proportion of ni-nis are Tumbes, Loreto, and Tacna, reflecting a concerning situation in specific geographical areas of the country. These young people are not only not generating income or accumulating human capital, but most of them are also not actively seeking employment, further exacerbating the situation. It is important to understand that the phenomenon of ni-nis is not simply about categorizing young people as "lazy" or disinterested in working or studying. Within this group, there is a great heterogeneity, with situations ranging from economic difficulties forcing them to drop out of school early to disabilities limiting their integration into the labor market. Furthermore, a third of ni-nis are in poverty, making it even more difficult for them to access education and employment opportunities. In a context where the economy has experienced setbacks and job creation has been affected, addressing the issue of ni-nis becomes an urgent and top priority task for authorities and society as a whole. To overcome this issue, it is necessary to implement policies that promote the retention of young people in the education system, as well as measures that facilitate their integration into the labor market in a less precarious manner. It is also essential to consider gender specificities within this group, as a significant proportion of ni-nis are women facing additional difficulties in accessing development opportunities. In a scenario where the migration of young people in search of better opportunities has become increasingly common, it is imperative to promote conditions that incentivize young people to build a life project within the country. The potential of this young population to boost productivity and country development is undeniable, so it is crucial to provide them with the necessary tools and opportunities to fully develop. In conclusion, the increase of ni-nis among young people in the country is a problem that requires comprehensive and urgent attention from authorities and society as a whole. Addressing the underlying causes of this situation, promoting inclusive educational and labor policies, and creating real development opportunities for young people are fundamental steps to ensure a more promising future for this important part of the Peruvian population.