C.D.B Youth Are the Future

This Caribbean Development Bank report highlights the urgent challenge of youth unemployment across the region, where rates far exceed global and adult averages. It explores the economic and social costs of joblessness among young people and presents policy-driven solutions informed by regional consultations. The report calls for bold, transformative action to unlock youth potential and secure a sustainable future for the Caribbean.

Challenges Affecting Youth Employment In The Caribbean

Youth employment in the Caribbean faces a complex set of challenges on both the supply and demand sides. On the supply side, issues include inadequate education, misaligned technical training, limited digital access, and a lack of work experience. Many young people also struggle with soft skills, professional attitudes, and unrealistic job expectations. On the demand side, sluggish economic growth, structural mismatches in the labor market, and low innovation have hindered the creation of decent jobs. Together, these factors contribute to high youth unemployment and underemployment across the region.

Eastern and Southern Caribbean Youth Assessment

The Eastern and Southern Caribbean Youth Assessment (ESCYA) offers a cross-sectoral analysis of youth development across 10 Caribbean nations, with a focus on vulnerable and at-risk youth. Commissioned by USAID/BEC, the report informs strategic planning and highlights urgent needs in areas such as education, employment, health, social support, juvenile justice, crime prevention, and climate resilience. Grounded in youth perspectives, ESCYA presents actionable recommendations to strengthen regional development efforts and improve outcomes for young people ages 14 to 24.

Generation Unlimited Barbados Fact Sheet

Youth aged 10–24 experience a critical transition from dependence to independence, navigating education, employment, and personal development. While many face temporary setbacks, others encounter lasting challenges that affect their well-being and broader societal progress. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these risks—especially for vulnerable youth—disrupting education, employment, and mental health. As recovery efforts unfold, the long-term needs of young people must not be overshadowed by short-term economic priorities.

Situation Analysis of Justice for Children in Barbados 2016

This project examines the juvenile justice system in Barbados, highlighting urgent reform needs to better support children in conflict with the law. While regional efforts have introduced specialized procedures, gaps remain—particularly around the low age of criminal responsibility and protections for older youth. The analysis calls for a restorative approach focused on rehabilitation and reintegration, informed by evidence on the types of offences and the diverse backgrounds of affected youth. It aims to build a foundation for legislative and policy reform aligned with international standards, ensuring a justice system that helps young people become well-adjusted, productive citizens.

Youth Development in the Caribbean

Commissioned by the Caribbean Group for Cooperation and Economic Development (CGCED), this report explores the underlying causes of challenges facing Caribbean youth, particularly those at risk of deviating from healthy development. Drawing on regional data and consultations, it identifies key risk and protective factors, highlights the societal costs of negative youth behaviors, and proposes strategic intervention points. While Caribbean youth are generally thriving, the report emphasizes the need for targeted support across OECS countries, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.