New EURYO Policy Brief on Rural Youth Employment Opportunities

EURYO is pleased to announce the publication of a new policy brief exploring employment opportunities and labour market dynamics affecting young people in rural areas across Europe. The document brings together research insights and policy reflections on the challenges and opportunities that rural youth face in accessing meaningful employment and building sustainable futures within their communities.
The policy brief examines how structural changes in rural economies—such as digitalisation, demographic transformations, and the transition toward greener and more sustainable economic models—are reshaping labour market opportunities for young people. While rural areas continue to face persistent challenges, including limited job diversification, youth outmigration, and unequal access to education and training, the report highlights emerging opportunities linked to innovation, digital work, entrepreneurship, and the development of new economic sectors.
A central message of the brief is the importance of integrated policy approaches that strengthen rural development while supporting young people’s participation in local economies. Improving digital connectivity, expanding access to education and skills development, supporting youth entrepreneurship, and fostering stronger links between local labour markets and regional opportunities are key elements identified to improve rural youth employment prospects.
To present and discuss the findings of this policy brief, EURYO will host an online webinar on 25 March at 15:00 CET. The event will bring together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working on rural youth issues to explore the implications of the report and discuss strategies to enhance opportunities for young people living in rural areas.
The webinar will provide an opportunity to engage with the authors of the policy brief, exchange perspectives, and reflect on how European policies and local initiatives can better support rural youth in navigating current labour market transformations.

REGISTER FOR THE WEBINAR HERE: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/aLR7_XMeQfCbNcLzJWOUfA

EURYO Policy Brief: Future employment opportunities and changes in rural youth labour markets