The OECD Youth Policy Toolkit provides practical guidance and good practices for countries in designing and executing policies that address the unique challenges young people face today. Structured around five pillars and featuring more than 70 good practice examples from all OECD countries, the OECD Youth Policy Toolkit helps policy makers implement the OECD Youth Recommendation adopted in June 2022. The Toolkit reflects diverse characteristics of young people and covers policy areas such as education and skills, employment and entrepreneurship, health and social inclusion, participation and representation in public life, and public governance and intergenerational justice.
OECD Youth Policy Toolkit
Creating better opportunities for young people is key to building a sustainable future for all
Skills and competencies: Ensuring that young people acquire relevant knowledge and develop appropriate skills
All young people, regardless of their background or circumstances, shall develop the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Inclusive and flexible learning opportunities foster not only academic and professional skills but also personal well-being and resilience. It's essential to address inequalities and barriers to create environments where everyone can thrive and transition smoothly into work or further learning. Equipping young people in this way helps them navigate both present and future opportunities and challenges such as green and digital transitions.
Youth labour market outcomes and entrepreneurship: Allowing young people to thrive in the labour market
Smooth transitions between education and the world of work are essential to improving young people’s life outcomes, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds who tend to face additional challenges in accessing the labour market. Investing in more and better quality jobs as well as guaranteeing labour rights and adequate pay is necessary to tackle precarious employment among young people. Employment services also play a key role in promoting inclusive labour markets by identifying and supporting young people facing barriers to employment. Youth entrepreneurship policies and schemes can further support young people by encouraging entrepreneurship as a viable career choice and facilitating access to resources such as counselling, training, financing and networks to help young people to start and grow their own business.
Young people’s social and health outcomes: Promoting social inclusion and well-being
Social inclusion and well-being for young people are priorities that go beyond economic concerns. Adequate income support, along with affordable and accessible quality housing, are essential, as are policies that ensure work is financially rewarding for everyone. Supporting both physical and mental health plays a key role in building a more inclusive society. Effective local outreach and integrated services ensure young people have access to the support they need to overcome challenges. Together, these efforts provide a strong foundation for young people to lead fulfilling, healthy lives, regardless of their circumstances.
Young people’s trust in government and relationship with public institutions: Fostering inclusive participation and engagement
Strengthening the trust of young people in government and their relationship with public institutions is key for reinforcing democracy. By enhancing legal frameworks, institutions, and administrative settings, we can create environments where youth voices are not only heard but also shape decision-making. Removing barriers to participation in civic and democratic processes and decision-making, amplifying youth representation in public institutions and in the public sector workforce, and encouraging civic engagement through volunteering and youth work pave the way for more inclusive, cohesive and resilient societies.
Administrative and technical capacities to address age-based inequalities: Building inclusive, youth-focused policies and services
Addressing age-based inequalities and promoting intergenerational justice are strategic priorities for ensuring inclusive prosperity. Young people assess their life satisfaction through different lenses than other age groups, highlighting the need for tailored solutions. Strengthening administrative and technical capacities, along with enhancing collaboration across all levels of government, is essential for delivering services that meet the diverse needs of young people. Collecting and sharing data disaggregated by age, sex, and other key characteristics, while promoting an integrated approach to youth policy and service delivery, are crucial steps forward. By embedding an intergenerational perspective into rule-making, public budgeting, procurement, and infrastructure decisions, we can ensure that policies benefit everyone, regardless of age.