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Youth Wiki

Slovenia

3. Employment & Entrepreneurship

Last update: 1 March 2025

The situation of young people in Slovenia is shaped by strong family support and a socially friendly education system, contrasted with an uncertain labour market. A key concern has been the rise in unemployed graduates. Most young people enter the job market after finishing their studies, typically in their mid-to-late 20s. Due to prolonged education, employment among those under 20 is rare.

Statistics show youth employment has improved over time, with unemployment declining. However, in 2020, youth unemployment slightly increased, reaching levels similar to 2017. Overall, young people remain among the most vulnerable in the labour market.

Flexible employment has replaced traditional permanent jobs. Student work is the most common form of flexible employment. Since 2013, labour laws have promoted "flexicurity," leading to a rise in fixed-term contracts, typically lasting three months to a year.

There is no single public body managing youth employment and entrepreneurship. Several ministries and government offices oversee policies, including the Ministry of Labour, Economic Development, Education, and the Employment Service of Slovenia (ESS). The government supports youth employment through active policies, offering incentives for hiring and training.

To encourage youth entrepreneurship, the National Programme for Youth 2013–2022 provides career support. The Slovene Enterprise Fund (SEF) also offers financial aid to innovative startups.

Young Slovenians struggle to balance work and family, as employers often see parenthood as disruptive. The National Programme for Youth 2013–2022 aims to improve work-life balance for young people.

Slovenia has no specific cross-border mobility programmes, but some mobility measures are included in the National Programme for Youth 2013–2022. The Erasmus+ programme remains the most significant initiative supporting mobility.