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Youth

University of Sheffield Researchers Investigate Racial Inequalities in Youth Unemployment

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Young black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people in the UK are more likely to experience higher levels of unemployment and economic inactivity, with rates exceeding 50% in some cases. A new research project at the University of Sheffield aims to understand the reasons behind this disparity and inform efforts to tackle racial inequalities. Led by Dr Gurleen Popli, the study will investigate why young BAME people face significant challenges in the job market, despite making up a significant proportion of the UK's youth population.

Key Takeaways:

  • The unemployment rate for 16-24-year-old BAME people was 18% in 2018, compared to 11% for their white peers, with economic inactivity rates standing at over 50% for BAME youths.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic threatens to exacerbate existing racial inequalities, with low-wage, low-skilled and BAME young workers likely to bear the brunt of job cuts.
  • During previous UK recessions in the 1980s, 1990s, and 2008-09, young BAME people were hit hardest by job cuts, and history is likely to repeat itself unless strong government action is taken.
  • Dr Popli's research project will examine the consequences for young BAME people when they reach the age of 25, and investigate why they are more likely to experience high levels of unemployment and economic inactivity.
  • The study aims to inform efforts to tackle racial inequalities, as the Black Lives Matter movement demands change and highlights the need for better understanding of ethnic inequalities in the UK.
  • The Leverhulme Research Fellowship awarded to Dr Popli will provide essential funding for the project, which is expected to shed new light on the complex issues surrounding youth unemployment and racial disparities.

Statistics:

  • In 2018, the unemployment rate for all 16-24-year-olds was 12% (Source: Guardian)
  • The rate of economic inactivity for 16-24-year-olds was 39% (Source: Guardian)
  • For young BAME people, the unemployment rate was 18% and economic inactivity stood at over 50% (Source: University of Sheffield)
  • During the 2008-09 recession, the unemployment rate for young BAME people rose by 6.3%, compared to a 2.4% rise for young white people (Source: EU Predict)
  • The COVID-19 pandemic is likely to exacerbate existing racial inequalities, with low-wage, low-skilled and BAME young workers at risk of job losses (Source: Financial Times)

Sources:

  • Guardian (no specific date or publication date mentioned)
  • University of Sheffield (no specific date or publication date mentioned)
  • EU Predict (no specific date or publication date mentioned)
  • Financial Times (no specific date or publication date mentioned)

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