Youth employment in tourism: A peek at global Travel sector trends

The Travel & Tourism sector has long been a vital contributor to the global economy, supporting millions of jobs across various regions. A significant part of this workforce comprises young people who find opportunities for employment in hospitality, travel services, and other related sectors. Youth employment in tourism has witnessed notable trends over the past decade, with growth rates varying by region, largely driven by factors such as economic development, regional tourism attractiveness, and evolving sector dynamics.

Role of youth

Youth employment trends in the Travel & Tourism sector have shown substantial regional differences. Between 2010 and 2019, the Asia-Pacific region saw an impressive growth rate of nearly 37% in youth employment. This rapid growth can be attributed to the region's booming tourism sector, driven by rising disposable incomes, the proliferation of budget airlines, and the growing middle class in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations. Moreover, governments have implemented policies to attract young people, including vocational training programmes and initiatives that promote tourism entrepreneurship.

Europe also continues to be a major player in youth employment. In 2022, Europe accounted for the largest share of youth employment in Travel & Tourism, representing 6.9% of all youth employment. The continent's well-established tourism infrastructure, combined with a strong focus on heritage and cultural tourism, continues to attract young workers. European nations like Spain, Italy, and Greece have been key contributors to these figures, offering a wide range of employment opportunities, particularly in seasonal and part-time roles in their bustling tourism industries.

North America, while not witnessing the same growth rates as Asia-Pacific, remains a steady provider of youth employment in Travel & Tourism. The region's strong domestic tourism market, bolstered by world-class infrastructure and services, creates ample opportunities for young people to enter the workforce, particularly in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Orlando. The Covid-19 pandemic had a profound impact on youth employment in North America, with significant job losses. However, the ongoing recovery of the sector, particularly in leisure and domestic travel, is expected to revive opportunities for young workers.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite the growth in youth employment, the sector faces several challenges that need to be addressed to ensure sustained progress. One key consideration is the need to enhance job quality for youth, as many positions currently offer valuable short-term experience but could benefit from more stability and growth opportunities to support long-term career development.

Nevertheless, there are numerous opportunities for growth and improvement. Technological advancements, such as the rise of digital travel platforms, remote work, and personalised travel experiences, are creating new job roles in the sector. Young people, who tend to be more tech-savvy, are well-positioned to capitalise on these opportunities. Additionally, sustainability trends within the sector, including eco-tourism and responsible travel, are opening up new avenues for youth employment in areas such as conservation, community-based tourism, and green travel services.

Governments and industry stakeholders can collaborate to enhance vocational training, ensure fair wages, and create pathways for career advancement. By investing in the skill development of young workers, the sector can improve job quality and provide meaningful employment opportunities that foster long-term engagement and professional growth.

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