Policy mixes and youth vulnerability in Europe: A qualitative comparative analysis of the NEET rate

Abstract

This article examines the capability of various welfare states to mitigate youth vulnerability, operationalized as a low NEET rate. It aims to complement existing empirical knowledge with a novel set of indicators and Europe-wide configurational comparison of youth welfare regimes. A QCA-based analysis of 26 European countries revealed two routes with different sets of compensatory and social investment policies that lead to the effective mitigation of the NEET rate. The study confirmed that generous social benefits for young unemployed people are a crucial element in every ‘route’ to keep the NEET rate low. Beyond this compensatory measure, successful policy configurations revealed the growing convergence of skills regimes in the pursuit of inclusive education policy design. We also found evidence that in mitigating youth vulnerabilities, housing support to young adults can compensate for active labour market policy measures. These findings have implications for policymakers who must take a holistic approach in devising policies and being mindful of the interplay between different policies. The study also provides insights into contemporary dynamics of the youth welfare regimes by making associations with growth regimes and housing regimes.