UN launches initiative to bolster youth employment in Arab region

The Beirut-based UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) on Tuesday launched an initiative to provide employment opportunities and training for young people in the Arab region as part of its efforts to reduce inequalities in the region, the ESCWA said in a press release.

The regional initiative, named "Josour," was launched as part of the ongoing Arab Forum for Equality in Jordan's capital Amman in partnership with Pathfinders for Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies, the Union of Arab Banks, the Union of Arab Chambers.

"Today, we need access to innovative approaches and mechanisms to address challenges related to efficient recruitment and keep up with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, through new business partnerships and collaboration," said ESCWA Executive Secretary Rola Dashti.

"Josour" is aimed at bringing together stakeholders from the private sector and young people in the Arab region looking for jobs, she added.

The youth unemployment in the Arab region stands at 26 percent, the highest in the world, according to ESCWA.