This own-initiative report is a timely way to assess all aspects of youth unemployment and the solutions to this major problem currently gripping Europe. It covers a wide range of issues, including youth guarantee programmes, migration and mobility issues, education systems and the role of the private sector.
Youth unemployment is one of the biggest challenges facing Europe today and one which demands an urgent response. Thanks to the S&D Group, this report makes clear that member states and the Commission need to provide much more money to fight youth unemployment and those countries which do not yet have a youth guarantee should be encouraged to do so. The S&D Group is satisfied that this report highlights the undeniable link between austerity and current unemployment levels. Moreover, internships should be properly paid and should not be used to replace an existing workforce.