In Gaza, the ongoing conflict has devastated the job market, leaving approximately 80% of young graduates unemployed. As Israel’s war continues, opportunities for skilled workers like Rawan al-Jabali, who studied translation, have all but vanished. Many graduates are forced to apply for jobs outside their fields just to secure any income, reflecting a desperate shift in the labour market.
The economic landscape in Gaza has contracted by over 82% since the war began in October 2023, exacerbating an already dire situation. With poverty rates exceeding 93%, graduates are struggling not only to find jobs but also to maintain their skills amid prolonged unemployment. This loss of human capital poses long-term risks to Gaza’s stability and development.
Community initiatives are emerging to combat this crisis. Spaces like the Peace Work Space in Deir el-Balah aim to provide reliable electricity and internet for displaced individuals seeking work. Despite challenges such as rising costs for essential equipment, these initiatives are crucial for helping young people adapt to the current economic climate.
Experts suggest that a comprehensive recovery plan focusing on reconstruction, entrepreneurship, and aligning education with market needs is essential. Until a stable government and economic environment can be established, however, job prospects for Gaza’s youth will remain bleak.
Source: Al Jazeera
