ILO links youth joblessness in Nepal to growing political frustration
Summary
The ILO has warned that poor job prospects and a lack of decent work can fuel political unrest, citing Nepal as an example of rising youth frustration in South Asia. Its 2026 youth employment report says Nepal’s challenge is not only unemployment but also the lack of stable, decent pathways from education into work.
Key Points
- The ILO says frustration over poor job prospects and decent work shortages can spill into political unrest, citing Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
- Global youth unemployment rose to 12.4 percent in 2025, with about 67 million people aged 15 to 24 without jobs.
- The report says many young workers are trapped in informal or insecure jobs, and that this is especially relevant in Nepal.
- The ILO urges governments to prioritize youth employment through job creation, training, apprenticeships, social protection and better links between education and employers.
