Growing up global: the changing transitions to adulthood in developing countries

This report finds that, compared to the situation 20 years ago, young people are entering adolescence in better health and reaching puberty earlier. They are also more likely to attend school, more likely to postpone entering the labor force, and more likely to delay marriage and childbearing. These broad statements, however, capture only the average tendencies for young people in developing countries. Despite dramatic progress in certain areas, many young people still lack adequate schooling and good health - both of which are essential for ensuring their productivity and well-being.