Young refugees and asylum-seekers, over 18 years old, face many obstacles in accessing socio-educational services in Catalonia (Spain). This study aims to identify policies and programmes that facilitate or hamper their socio-educational pathways and transition to the labour market in the Catalan context. From a multilevel approach, we analyse the correlation between policies and institutional responses at the macro level and, at the meso level, the role of agents such as municipalities, NGOs, non-state partners and start-up agencies in the application of national reception policies. Through qualitative research, we implement semi-structured interviews with professionals and volunteers for an in-depth understanding of governmental reception policies and programmes adopted by local municipalities and agencies. The results indicate that the main problems are related to structural barriers at the macro level in terms of administrative procedures and limited resources targeted to the specific needs of young refugees and asylum-seekers, as well as the lack of effective coordination among national institutions, local administrations and agencies at the meso level. Findings also highlight models of good practice from local municipalities and non-state partners in managing the social inclusion of these young people in Catalonia. © 2024 selection and editorial matter, Karolina Sobczak-Szelc, Marta Pachocka, and Justyna Szalanska.

DOI: 10.4324/9781003228967-4

ISBN: 9781003814573; 9781032116662