Romania now ranks third in the EU for youth unemployment, at 24%. In rural areas, the rate exceeds 30%

According to Eurostat, Romania is facing youth unemployment of 24%, the third highest in the EU after Spain and Sweden. In rural areas, the rate exceeds 30%, as many jobs remain unfilled due to their concentration in cities. Young people prefer the informal economy with high wage expectations. School drop-out rates are also alarming and anti-work sentiment is on the rise, complicating young people's integration into the labor market.