“Close to half of young people aged 15 to 24 are not in employment, education or training.”
That is one of the key findings from Vanuatu’s first-ever Labour Force Survey 2025, released by the Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics.
The survey paints a concerning picture of the country’s job market, highlighting major challenges facing employment, especially among young people.
According to the report, the unemployment rate stands at 4.5 percent. However, labour underutilisation is significantly higher at 24.6 percent — meaning many people are either working fewer hours than they want, in unstable jobs, or unable to find work.
Director General of Internal Affairs, Leith Veremaito, said the biggest concern is youth unemployment.
“Close to half of the young people aged 15 to 24 — around 44% — are not in employment, education or training. This is a striking figure, not because they are lazy, but because pathways are not available.”
The survey also found that 58.5 percent of those employed are working in the informal sector, including small-scale businesses, farming, and casual jobs with little or no job security.
In rural areas, many families continue to rely on subsistence farming to survive.
The report highlights a gender gap as well, with women participating less in the workforce compared to men.
Officials say this is the first time Vanuatu has had a comprehensive dataset showing how people work, where they work, how many hours they work, and how much income they earn.
Chief Statistician Andy Calo said the survey will help guide future policies.
“The Labour Force Survey helps us understand the labour market — both supply and demand — and will support better planning for employment and economic development.”
New Zealand High Commissioner Peter Kemp described the survey as an important tool for the country’s future.
“This survey is not just about statistics — it is about understanding people’s lives and using that knowledge to build a stronger future.”
Authorities say the findings are a wake-up call for policymakers to address key issues including job creation, youth employment, women’s participation, and challenges in the informal sector.
