One in Five Israeli Youth Lag Behind in Work, Study, or Training
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
One in five young Israelis aged 18-24 are not engaged in work, study, or training, a situation exacerbated by uncertainty about the future impact of AI and career choices. Experts warn this trend has significant long-term economic and personal consequences, and the focus should be on helping youth navigate change rather than providing definitive answers.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- One in five young Israelis are not working, studying, or in training.
- Uncertainty about AI's impact paralyzes career decisions for youth.
- Military service and reserve duty further delay civilian career entry.
- Long-term economic consequences include lower earning potential.
- Focus should be on helping youth navigate change, not providing fixed answers.
A significant portion of young Israelis, specifically one in five individuals aged 18-24, are not currently employed, studying, or undergoing vocational training. This contrasts with trends observed in the OECD, where the situation is reversed. Sigal Green, Chairwoman of the Coaches Association in Israel, highlighted that these young people are not lazy but often feel paralyzed by indecision regarding their future career paths. They are uncertain whether to work, study, what to study, or if committing to a multi-year degree is wise given the unpredictable impact of artificial intelligence on professions.
Green explained that this confusion is amplified in Israel due to factors like military service and reserve duty, which, while providing a sense of purpose, also repeatedly delay entry into civilian life. She noted that while reserve duty can offer a sense of mission, it can also put lives on hold, leading to repeated postponements of education or professional beginnings, thus transforming a personal issue into a national one. She stressed that the early twenties are a critical period for gaining initial experience, building skills, and forming professional connections, and those who remain outside the workforce or training for extended periods start later with less confidence, experience, and fewer tools.
The economic implications are potentially long-term. OECD data indicates that Israelis aged 25-34 who did not complete high school earn 72% of the salary of those with a high school education. Furthermore, public investment in higher education in Israel is considerably lower than the OECD average. However, Green cautioned against simplistic solutions like sending everyone to university. She argued that the expectation for a 21-year-old to choose a career for the next forty years is unrealistic and paralyzing in today's rapidly changing job market.
Green emphasized that artificial intelligence is already performing tasks previously done by humans and will continue to do so, necessitating different skills. Therefore, career choices must consider the evolving job market, changing professions, and future skill demands. She mentioned that the upcoming professional research conference of the Coaches Association in Israel on November 26, 2026, will focus on career development and the emerging job market. The primary challenge, she concluded, is not to provide a single correct answer but to help young people understand the changes, identify suitable directions, and, most importantly, not be afraid to start moving.
