What works in reducing NEET rates: an international comparative study

The systems challenge

The percentage of young people in the UK aged 16-24 classified as ‘not in education, employment, or training’ is remains consistently high, and one of the highest rates compared to other countries in the EU and OECD.

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Our aim

To tackle this challenge, we want to learn more about what works to reduce the rate of young people not in education, employment or training by looking at effective interventions used in EU and OECD countries.

What have we done?

We commissioned RAND Europe to:

investigate international NEET rates
identify successful initiatives that have helped reduce these rates in EU and OECD countries, particularly among marginalised young people

Approach

RAND Europe:

conducted a review of existing international evidence and data on what works to reduce NEET rates
developed a series of international case studies to illustrate, and provide learning about, successful approaches and interventions

Outcomes

The research has generated insights for policymakers, funders and commissioners on potential evidence-based initiatives.

Project outputs

Explore the report and accompanying materials

Policy papers, Research reports Nov 2025

What works in reducing NEET rates: a comparative study

Examining international evidence on successful initiatives to identify key principles for effective action and offer recommendations for how the UK can translate these lessons into practice

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Case studies, Summaries Nov 2025