Envision Gaza 2020: Youth Analysis

This demographic faces significant challenges, including high poverty rates and unemployment, currently standing at 60%. The summer 2014 conflict, prolonged restrictions on access and movement, separation between Gaza and the West Bank, and governance challenges have all negatively impacted the situation of youth in Gaza. Almost 60% of these youth are unemployed, with a World Bank report published in May 2015 noting that the high rate of youth unemployment has reinforced feelings of alienation and confusion. Youth in Gaza face numerous barriers to employment, including a lack of access to broader social networks, unwillingness by businesses to employ women, concern by businesses about security of women in certain locations, and a limited number of jobs that are considered 'acceptable' for women. High fertility rates reinforce these barriers, as women are often forced to prioritize domestic activities. The study found that youth, both males and females, prioritize finding employment and earning a steady income, which they believe will provide them with a strong starting point for social interactions and establishing a family. The results of the study also showed that supporting start-up businesses and small income-generating projects are among the most prominent needs of youth from both genders. However, they find business incubators have a very limited role in supporting and directing them, with little opportunity for receiving funding for their projects. Temporary employment provides good opportunities for recent graduates, providing them with skills and experience they need and market themselves for employers. However, short-term employment is only a temporary solution and can further increase frustration and feelings of hopelessness among youth. Youth with disabilities are often marginalized from these types of short-term job opportunities. The study showed that apprenticeship and training are among the priorities of youth in the Gaza Strip. However, youth also find that such opportunities are limited, and they face numerous obstacles that keep such types of businesses from being successful. The study's findings highlight the need for more job and training opportunities, increased access to business incubators, and youth-friendly services in Gaza, particularly libraries, sports clubs, addiction treatment centers, public parks, and healthcare centers. The Envision Gaza 2020 project, a 5-year USAID-funded project starting in April 2016, aims to address the many needs and challenges facing men and women, boys, and girls in Gaza. The project focuses on providing humanitarian assistance and livelihoods activities, including Cash for Work, Cash for Internship, Cash for Apprenticeship, entrepreneurial training for youth and women, and small business grants. The youth analysis conducted as part of the project will assist CRS and its partners in helping ensure that program interventions address the challenges and opportunities specific to youth in Gaza. The study's results highlight the need for more job and training opportunities, increased access to business incubators, and youth-friendly services in Gaza. The Envision Gaza 2020 project aims to address these needs and provide a better future for the youth of Gaza. The project's focus on providing humanitarian assistance and livelihoods activities will help to address the challenges faced by youth in Gaza and provide them with the skills and experience they need to succeed.