Problematization and policy responses to youth (out)migration in small and medium-sized industrial towns

Underestimated and not well covered by academic literature, youth outmigration in small and medium-sized industrial towns and regions is a pressing development issue. As a highly selective process, it is often layered by gender and education, which calls for a better understanding and improved policies to be devised. Drawing on a mixed-method research approach, this article analyses two European case studies. It reveals a lack of integrated and cross-sectoral policymaking and advocates for a broader understanding of the reasons for youth leaving even economically successful industrial towns and regions. Additionally, next to economic factors, the significance of social and cultural aspects in such processes is emphasized.