Youth integration in the Lebanese labor market : situation analysis and implications on development policies

Abstract

Purpose - In the current climate of grass-rooted revolutionary changes in the Middle East, uncontrolled dispersion and oppression of youth is still leading to drastic systematic changes in the world order. Today, youth are not only assets, but also considered as agents of change in the International community. As a result, youth need to be treated as a distinct socio-demographic group targeted by specific national policies. Design/methodology/approach - This work will target the integration of youth through a mixed research methodology which will include a combination of exploratory content analysis, participant observant, and in depth-interview assessments. This combination will be referred to as the desired result of the work that will influence integration policies. Findings - The desired results should be the product of collaborative efforts between different social partners. Research limitations/implications - The work stresses on a participatory approach that will enable a smooth transition process to a more dynamic labor market. However, some limitations bound to this work included: politicized data, support from enterprises in providing information, and time limitations. Practical implications - This paper explores where Lebanon's stance in identifying youth and their participation in the labor market. Moreover, it highlights the benefits of youth integration, stressing their implications on the conditions of the Lebanese labor market. Originality/value - As a concept, integrating the youth in economic development processes guarantees benefiting from the vast potential of young people's capabilities. Moreover, the creation of decent work opportunities can turn current wasted productive capacity into positive force for development. Failing to integrate the youth, employers will be facing costly drawbacks. This systematic failure can lead to the exclusion and marginalization of youth while depriving communities of their energy, dynamism, and innovativeness.