Bangladesh youth face growing unemployment crisis amid lack of jobs, opportunities
Dhaka, Aug 12
Bangladesh's youth are facing a growing employment crisis, with many struggling to turn their education and skills into jobs and opportunities, local media reported on Wednesday, citing a nationwide survey.
The findings highlight unemployment as one of the biggest challenges confronting young people across the country.
The survey, titled "Problems of Youth in Bangladesh and Possible Solutions," identified unemployment, skills gaps, mental stress, digital addiction, online gambling and drug abuse as major concerns among young people in Bangladesh, along with limited youth participation in policymaking.
The assessment was jointly conducted by social research and advocacy group Shopnopuri Kallyan Sangstha and Bangladesh Co-Creation to mark International Youth Day 2026, Bangladeshi daily Dhaka Tribune reported.
International Youth Day is observed on Wednesday, under the United Nations theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations." Marked annually on August 12, the day raises awareness of the challenges and opportunities facing young people around the world and celebrates their role as essential partners in achieving sustainable development.
Students, youth organisers, volunteers, social and development workers, and representatives of youth initiatives from across Bangladesh took part in the survey. Many respondents cited unemployment as a major concern, while the survey also highlighted growing challenges related to the mental well-being of young people.
Saleha K, a member of Disable Welfare Society Bangladesh, identified growing frustration and depression among young people as major concerns.
On the other hand, Rabiul Islam, organising secretary of Gabura Welfare Society, said that uncertainty about the future, low self-confidence and lack of guidance are leaving many young people in Bangladesh increasingly vulnerable to mental stress.
Furthermore, Sanjida Sumiya Suchona, a representative of Geo Avengers, said that the inability to secure desired employment, financial stability and a better quality of life after years of education and skills development is driving frustration among many young people.
Excessive reliance on digital technology, along with online gambling and casino games, was also identified as a concern by respondents.
Md Shariful Islam Abhi, founder and director of Islamic Society Sangha Burimari, pointed to mobile phone misuse and drug addiction as growing problems among young people.
Raising concerns over the growing popularity of online gambling and betting in Bangladesh, Md Golam Momin, a student at Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, said that the temptation to earn money quickly is leading many young people into risky pursuits.
Highlighting a relatively different concern, Aman Ullah, advisor to Bangladesh-based 'Dipanchal Foundation', said that a "transit mindset" is emerging among many young people, with many viewing Bangladesh as a temporary stop rather than a country where they can build their future, Dhaka Tribune reported.
He added that an increasing number of young people view migration abroad as the primary pathway to a successful future.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The survey mentions digital addiction and online gambling — this is a global issue now, not just Bangladesh. But the real story here is the skills gap. Degrees alone won't help if the education system doesn't align with market needs. We in India see the same problem in some states. Youth need vocational training and mentorship, not just theoretical knowledge.
"Transit mindset" is a powerful phrase. When a generation believes their country is just a stepping stone, that's a national crisis. Bangladesh has made economic progress in the garment sector, but they need to diversify. India must remain a supportive neighbour, but ultimately, Bangladesh needs its own sustainable job creation strategy. Migration isn't always the answer — many who go abroad face exploitation.
The mental health angle is often overlooked. In India, we also see young people struggling with depression and anxiety due to job pressure. The fact that they included 'mental stress' in the survey is a step forward. But awareness alone won't solve it — they need counselling services and support systems. Also, the online gambling issue is spreading fast across South Asia; governments need to regulate this seriously. 😔
I appreciate the survey's honest assessment. The "limited youth participation in policymaking" is a critical point that resonates worldwide. If young people aren't part of the solution, they'll feel alienated. India has tried things like Skill India and Start-up India, but implementation matters. Bangladesh needs similar focused initiatives, and perhaps India can share learnings through SAARC or bilateral exchanges. 🤝
The mention of drug abuse and mobile phone misuse is concerning
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.