Jobs Wanted: China's Struggle with Youth Unemployment

After the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, China's economy has struggled to regain momentum. Low domestic demand has impacted multiple industries, while rising youth unemployment is fueling concern among local communities. In response, the Chinese government has introduced a range of policies to strengthen vocational education, aiming to equip young people with practical skills for a growing tech sector. On July 17, 2025, an interview with Eli Friedman and Yun Zhou, moderated by Andrew Liu, examines key features of China's labor market, analyzes shifting economic trends, and explores the broader impact of socio-cultural attitudes in the workplace. About the speakers