Creating Bridges for Youth in the Labor Market - Challenges and Opportunities

Over the past three decades, North Macedonia has undergone significant economic transitions, particularly following the privatization of its industrial sector in the 1990s. While the country has seen economic growth, challenges such as high youth unemployment, outdated vocational education, and a mismatch of skills with labor market demands continue to hinder progress. This paper explores the factors contributing to the unemployment crisis, particularly among young people, and examines the steps needed to bridge the gap between education, employment, and the evolving job market. It also discusses the role of government support in creating new job opportunities and addressing long-term unemployment.