Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Çalışma ve Toplum, cilt.2, sa.85, ss.1-32, 2025 (Hakemli Dergi)
This study explores the labor market outcomes of youth and adults in Türkiye, focusing on the distinction between decent and nondecent employment during the pre- and post-pandemic periods. Drawing on microdata from the Household Labor Force Survey (2018–2022), the research examines key dimensions of decent work, including job security, social protection, and equal opportunities. Youth, defined as individuals aged 15–24, are disproportionately affected by unemployment, precarious jobs, and skill mismatches, highlighting critical vulnerabilities in Türkiye’s labor market. The findings reveal stark disparities between youth and adults. Youth are overrepresented in non-decent employment, particularly in sectors like agriculture and trade, and face significant wage disparities compared to adults. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these challenges, with youth experiencing greater employment instability and slower recovery in decent job opportunities. Educational attainment emerged as a pivotal factor, with higher levels correlating strongly with access to decent employment. However, systemic skill mismatches persist, impeding labor market integration.
The study underscores the importance of targeted policies to enhance education, align skills with market demands, and promote inclusive job creation. Addressing these challenges is crucial for Türkiye to capitalize on its demographic window of opportunity, ensuring sustainable economic growth and improved labor market outcomes for its young workforce