The article examines how the Netherlands has achieved one of the lowest rates of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) in Europe, and what lessons the United Kingdom could draw from its approach.In the UK, more than one million young people aged 16 to 24 are currently classified as NEET, representing around 13.5% of this age group, with the figure rising to nearly 16% among 18- to 24-year-olds.By contrast, the Netherlands has maintained a NEET rate below 5% for over a decade, standing at approximately 5.3% according to Eurostat.

Research from thinktanks such as the Resolution Foundation suggests that matching Dutch performance could result in around 600,000 additional young people in education or employment in Britain.The Dutch success is attributed to a long-term, system-wide strategy built on three main pillars.

First, vocational education plays a central role, with strong emphasis on technical and professional training integrated with apprenticeships and workplace experience.

Around 67% of young people in the Netherlands remain in education compared with 43% in the UK, and vocational pathways are closely linked to employers.

Secondly, the Dutch welfare system prioritises active engagement, with localised support services offering tailored interventions, including mental health support, training and subsidised employment, rather than passive benefit receipt.

Thirdly, employers are incentivised through fiscal measures, including subsidies and tax advantages, to hire young workers, reducing barriers to entry into the labour market.

The article also highlights local initiatives such as those in Rotterdam, where councils work closely with employers and provide intensive support programmes for disadvantaged young people, including wage subsidies of up to 70%.

Overall, experts argue that the Dutch model succeeds because education, welfare, and employment policy are closely integrated, creating smoother transitions from school to work and reducing long-term youth unemployment.