Tunis, Tunisia – The Second Regional High-Level Meeting (HLM) on Young People’s Learning, Skilling, and Transition to Decent Work concluded today. Hosted by Tunisia at the Palais des Congrès in Tunis on 26-27 June 2024, and co-organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the event reaffirmed the commitment to a future where every young person has the education, skills and opportunities needed to achieve decent work, realize their full potential, and contribute to socio-economic development across the Arab States through innovative approaches and strengthened collaboration.

The meeting brought together national delegations from across the region, including representatives from government, the private sector, worker and employer organizations, civil society, and youth organizations. Building on the success of the first Regional High-Level Meeting held in Amman, Jordan, in May 2022, this year's meeting addressed critical issues affecting young people in the region, particularly focusing on digital and green skills and jobs, as well as the inclusion and empowerment of girls and women.

Delegates reviewed progress made since the 2022 meeting and acknowledged significant achievements despite multiple-faceted challenges. All countries confirmed their active engagement of young people in efforts to achieve the commitments made. Several countries passed youth policies fostering coordination among ministries and ensuring a holistic approach, enabling comprehensive solutions that address the multifaceted needs and priorities of youth.

Throughout the meeting, the Regional Directors of the five UN agencies reaffirmed that they will continue to work hand in hand with Member States, the private sector, young people, worker and employer representatives, and other stakeholders to address youth unemployment and facilitate a successful transition to decent work in an evolving employment landscape.

The agencies have also reassured their commitment to support all stakeholders in translating the outcomes of this meeting into tangible actions. This commitment reflects the agencies’ dedication to advancing education and skills development for a sustainable future. Deliberations and outcomes will inform the upcoming United Nations Summit of the Future, ensuring that the perspectives of Arab States on preparing young people for future opportunities and challenges are represented.

As the region faces the dual challenges of transitioning into a new economy driven by green and blue industries and integrating advancements in artificial intelligence, it is evident that substantial and accelerated efforts are needed to prepare for these shifts. The convening UN agencies are steadfast in supporting governments to implement their commitments and adopt integrated approaches that foster intersectoral coordination and build impactful partnerships.

For media inquiries, please contact: 

Salwa Kanaana, ILO ROAS, kanaana@ilo.org, +96171505958

Stéphanie Boustany, UNDP RBAS, stephanie.boustany@undp.org, +971561750513

Nisrine Kammourieh, UNESCO Multisectoral Regional Office in Beirut, n.kammourieh@unesco.org, +96176840702

Mariem Ouled Cheib, UNFPA Tunisia, ouledcheib@unfpa.org, +21698755430

Salim Oweis, UNICEF MENA, soweis@unicef.org, +962799365212