Recent riots in New Caledonia shines on a simmering discontent among young people in the Pacific as they face a harsh reality of high unemployment rates which pose a significant threat to stability and prosperity in the region.
The trigger for the recent unrest in New Caledonia was a new law that would expand the local electorate. The indigenous Kanak population fears this enfranchisement will empower pro-government groups, potentially diminishing their political influence. However, the roots of the discontent run much deeper, stemming from a complex web of economic and social challenges.
A major issue is the lack of opportunities for young Pacific islanders. The region struggles with high poverty rates, limited access to quality education, and a scarcity of well-paying jobs. These factors create a sense of hopelessness and frustration among young people, who see few pathways to a brighter future.
Andre Qaeze reporting from New Caledonia told RNZ Pacific that the real problem is economics.
“Becuase those young people on the road, plenty of them don’t have any training, they go out from school with no job. They see all the richness going out of the country and they say we cannot be a spectator,” he said.
“The rich become richer and the poor become poorer, and they say no, we have to change this economic model of sharing. I think this is the main problem,” he added.
The Pacific islands are not alone in facing these challenges. Youth unemployment is a global problem, but it is particularly acute in developing regions. The International Labour Organisation estimates that young people are three times more likely to be unemployed than adults. This disparity is even wider in some Pacific nations.
The consequences of youth unemployment can be far-reaching. It can lead to social unrest, crime, and radicalisation. It can also hinder economic growth and development, as a nation’s youth represents its future workforce and potential for innovation.
Recognising the gravity of the situation, Japan who is hosting the 10th Pacific Leaders Meeting (PALM) in July has this on top of its agenda as it recognises Pacific island nations struggle with the social and economic fallout of youth unemployment. Finding solutions will require a multi-pronged approach that addresses the root causes of the problem.
Investing in education and skills training is crucial. Equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in the job market is essential for boosting employment opportunities. Encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation will create new jobs and drive economic growth.
The mounting economic and social impacts of the seasonal worker program on Pacific island families and youth is taking its toll and can’t be ignored as it becomes a ‘brain drain’ cliche.
The PALM summit is yet another opportunity for regional leaders to collaborate on solutions for which many young people in the Pacific don’t have patience in waiting for anymore.
