A campaign against youth unemployment is set to launch today. Reject Youth Unemployment coalition (RYU) is a coalition made up of those affected by youth unemployment, concerned organisations, economists, academics and other individuals aiming to bring a community and youth voice to the issue of high youth unemployment and the lack of opportunities available for young people in New Zealand.

Updated unemployment statistics are also due out today.

Mark Pickering said The Salvation Army has helped form the Reject Youth Unemployment Coalition with the intent to achieve a community, particularly youth, voice on youth unemployment, "if Government and other community leaders do not start now to reduce very high youth unemployment and youth disengagement, New Zealand will face a 'lost generation' which will increase the risks of long-term unemployment, mental illness, suicide and associated negative social impacts."

James Sleep, Stand Up spokesperson says "youth unemployment has skyrocketed from 17% to 27.5% over the past three years. for 15-19 year olds. The purpose of this coalition is to advocate for stronger Government action to address youth unemployment. RYU is calling for greater investment in youth transitions between school and future pathways, investment in jobs, education and training and making a call for young people to be treated with dignity within the system."

Mark Pickering continues "as a provider of education, vocational training and related social services to youth and their families in communities across New Zealand, The Salvation Army has first-hand experience of many youth who are striving for employment. Through the Coalition, we hope negative stereotypes of youth are broken down. We hope the Coalition provides a platform from which New Zealanders will hear from the vast majority of young people who are Kiwis that want to study, work and contribute to society. And we will encourage Government and other community leaders to facilitate initiatives that eradicate youth unemployment."