External Circumstances and University-to-Work Transitions: A Comparative Analysis across Western Balkan Countries

This study investigates the university-to-work transitions (measured as the time-to-first-job) of graduates in the Western Balkan 6 countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia), focusing on how external circumstances such as demographic and socio-economic factors influence these transitions. Analysing data from 2019 to 2021, we find significant disparities based on gender, age, urban versus rural upbringing, and socio-economic status. Our findings reveal that the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing inequalities, with male graduates and those from higher socio-economic backgrounds generally experiencing shorter transitions to their first job. The study underscores the critical need for targeted policy interventions to bridge these gaps and promote equitable employment outcomes. By offering valuable insights for policymakers, our research highlights the necessity for cohesive strategies to enhance youth employability and foster regional development in the context of the EU integration agenda.