OECD Report: One in Five Young Israelis Neither Study Nor Work

A recent report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) reveals that 20% of Israelis aged 18-24 are currently not engaged in education, employment, or vocational training. This figure has risen from 17% over the past decade, placing Israel at the top among developed nations for this demographic, while the OECD average has fallen to 13%. The report, "Education at a Glance 2026," warns that prolonged periods of inactivity in youth can lead to long-term negative consequences for social integration and employment, and increases the risk of criminal activity.

Furthermore, the proportion of Israelis aged 25-34 without a high school diploma has increased from 9% in 2015 to 11% in 2025, contrasting with a decrease from 17% to 12% across OECD countries. This educational gap results in young professionals without diplomas earning only 72% of the salary of high school graduates in Israel.

The report also highlights significant underinvestment in higher education. Government spending per university student in Israel stands at approximately $7,885, half the developed country average of $16,405. State funding covers only 38% of national higher education expenses, compared to the OECD average of 68%.

In primary education, Israel leads OECD nations with an average of 28 students per class, versus the average of 21. Spending per preschool-aged child is also notably low, amounting to only 9.8% of the average in developed countries.

The organization of school principals, "Leaders," described the findings as a "disturbing signal" for the education system and called for the decentralization of local authority.