OECD Report Reveals Severe Youth Crisis in Israel

A new OECD report highlights a "national youth crisis" in Israel, stemming from declining educational attainment and engagement among young adults, a situation largely ignored by the public and government. The report indicates a worrying trend contrary to global progress, with significant implications for Israel's future.

Specifically, the percentage of Israelis aged 25-34 without a high school education rose from 9% in 2015 to 11% in 2025, a quarter increase and a reversal of global trends. This demographic faces significantly lower earning potential, with an estimated 43% less income than university graduates, leading to substantial economic damage. The Ministry of Education disputes these figures, maintaining a 1% annual dropout rate, raising questions about how the cumulative percentage reaches 11%.

Furthermore, the proportion of young Israelis aged 18-24 who are neither employed nor in education increased from 17% in 2015 to 20% in 2025. Israel ranks among the top five countries in the OECD for this "NEET" (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) demographic. This idleness can lead to long-term unemployment and potentially increase recruitment for organized crime. Despite this, the government has cut funding for programs aimed at reducing this phenomenon, particularly within the Arab community.

In higher education, the percentage of men aged 25-34 with university degrees stagnated at 36% between 2015 and 2025. This contrasts sharply with the OECD average, which rose from 34% to 43%, placing Israeli men significantly below the average. Israel's investment per student in higher education is less than half that of other developed nations, contributing to a decline in university rankings. The article attributes these issues to failing educational systems in the Haredi and Arab sectors, as well as the cumulative impact of recent crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and political turmoil.

The report places significant responsibility on the current government, particularly Minister of Education Yoav Kisch, for the "complete neglect" of these issues. Without urgent intervention, the article warns of escalating crime, a shrinking workforce, and further declines in already low productivity, urging a future minister to address the crisis comprehensively.