International Inequity Patterns in Youth and Young Adults Related to COVID-19: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals on Well-Being, Education, and Employment

Abstract

COVID-19 has threatened physical and mental health and reduced overall wellbeing. Wellbeing has declined significantly since the pandemic, particularly within younger sub-populations aged 15-29. Past disasters and current crises indicate that decreased wellbeing can have serious long-term health, social, and financial effects for the individual and society. This is particularly concerning for younger people whose lives and livelihoods are developing. Research indicates that supports put in place at younger ages typically lead to multiple gains in growth and development. Our objective was to use a scoping review spanning 2020-2021 to map the patterns of international inequity on young people in terms of education, employment, and mental health. As educators, we note the special capacity within the United Nations sustainable development goals to address these challenges. With its inherent focus on wellbeing, the sustainable development goals framework can be used to guide the strategic processes to address wellbeing, especially in these vulnerable subpopulations. The review enabled us to identify preliminary steps for strategy development related to policy and for educators to consider in supporting youth and young adults. Many universities have established processes for advancing sustainable development goals. Educators’ expertise and capacity to effect change can be harnessed to improve mental health and wellbeing locally while contributing to longer-term sustainable development within society. The authors stated that wellbeing is a beacon for the future. Monitoring wellbeing and taking steps to address its decline, especially in the young, must be a priority as they are the future leaders of society. Youth and young adults will also bear the brunt of the economic and social burden due to the pandemic. By investing in the wellbeing of today’s youth and young adults there are opportunities to «pay it forward» so that better outcomes may be realized in the future.