Out of School and Out of Work: Risk and opportunities for Latin America’s Ninis

Children and adolescents who neither work nor go to school are often known as ‘ninis’ throughout Latin America. One in five youths in the region are living as ninis. This persistent problem, according to the World Bank Group, needs to be given closer consideration by governments throughout the region.

This study aims to provide policy makers in the region with analysis of the nini issue and options for addressing it in their respective countries. The issue is quantified and the study develops a conceptual framework to identify the determinants of youths’ choices, while also reviewing those interventions that have proven most effective in keeping youth in school and helping them become employed.