Young people in the labour market in Hungary and Slovenia: problems and perspectives

Abstract

Hungary and Slovenia, two recent members of the European Union, have labour markets facing similar issues to other Western European nations with the added challenges associated with the transition from a planned to a market economy. The chapter aims to present the major changes confronting young people since the beginning of this transition period. This is done within the broader context of societal transformation and focusing on the educational and employment situation of these young people. It is revealed that most young people became increasingly vulnerable during this period but that, at the same time, educational policies in both countries aimed to expand secondary and higher education. This is temporarily reducing the number of young people entering the labour market but could possibly be problematic if future job opportunities do not keep pace with the rising level of education. Social protection policies are basic and limited in efficiency. The authors conclude by discussing the implications of these developments for the position of young people in society generally.