Unemployment, drug abuse among factors inhibiting youth

Unemployment, Drug Abuse among factors inhibiting youth

The UK's unemployment rate has risen, despite a government support scheme to protect the workforce. Unions have warned of a 'tsunami' of job cuts in the coming months, as the furlough programme comes to an end.

Here are a few reasons to pick up a copy of The Guardian on Saturday. Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Saturday.

German unemployment has fallen as the country appeared to bounce back from the initial shock of the coronavirus pandemic. However, a second partial lockdown looks set to darken the economic outlook.

Some 885,000 Americans filed applications for unemployment benefits last week – the highest level since early September. The surge in coronavirus cases across the country means that many businesses are forced to lay off workers. Meanwhile, lawmakers appear to be closing in on another round of stimulus and relief funds, while hoping to head off the looming possibility of a government shutdown.

The number of Americans claiming unemployment benefits rose to its highest level since March, as the pandemic continues to shutter businesses across the country. In this show, we look ahead to President-elect Joe Biden's plans to protect households and boost the economy...plus French carmaker Renault's plans to pare back production and go electric.

Afghanistan's Taliban government launched a programme to tackle hunger on Sunday, offering thousands of people wheat in exchange for labour.

Ethopian entrepreneur Kidist Tesfaye challenges pollution by producing ecofriendly bags out of paper and fabrics.

Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Thursday.⁣

Youth unemployment in China hit nearly 20% last year as lockdowns took their toll. Many young people are rejecting a return to the daily grind, while those seeking security in the public sector have hit a dead end.

One in two young people in South Africa are unemployed while more than 1.2 million graduates are without jobs in Uganda. More own initiatives could ease unemployment in Africa, experts say.