Social inclusion of young people establishes six key concepts for this population group: access to education, transition from school to work, access to health (physical and mental), as well as participation in different areas, access to culture and the right to a life free of violence.

Investing in young adults is one of the fundamental pillars for achieving sustainable development with equality in the region. That means the social inclusion of young people should be approached from a multidimensional and integrated perspective with a rights-based focus in which, in addition to accessing education, health or a decent job, they should feel part of the society they are jointly building with others.

There exist in Latin America and the Caribbean instruments such as the Ibero-American Convention on the Rights of Youth, which sets forth a commitment to recognize the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of young people. There are a number of studies that provide a variety of perspectives on the characterization and problematization of the youth population.

In order to move towards the social inclusion of young people, it is necessary to consolidate comprehensive youth policies with a generational perspective. Such policies should consider measures to close the main gaps affecting young people in education, health, employment, participation, culture and the right to a life free of violence.

Pandemic containment policies have had a powerful impact on youth with social distancing measures, leaving them feeling frustrated, isolated, anxious and depressed; feelings that can lead to increased tobacco, alcohol and drug use that could have long-term effects on their health. The pandemic has also led to major job losses among young people.