Romania ranks last in the European Union for youth employment, with only 2.4% of young people aged 15‑29 working or studying in 2024, according to Eurostat data. The country tops the list of NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) rates, while the EU average is ten times higher. In contrast, the Netherlands and Denmark offer strong support for students combining work and study, with 74.3% and 56.4% of young people employed respectively. Romania’s low participation is blamed on high taxes, bureaucratic hurdles for small firms (SRL/PFA), and a lack of transparency in the labour market. The government’s recent decision to exclude the first day of medical leave from pay has further discouraged employers. The article highlights the need for reforms to make part‑time work and author‑contract arrangements more attractive for students and apprentices.

Original article can be found here.