The meaning of work and decent employment are key themes for
understanding workers' well-being in complex socio-economic contexts.
This comparative study seeks to explore how young adults in Lebanon and
Tunisia with low levels of qualification perceive their work, and how these
perceptions influence their professional identity and psychological well
being. The study also aims to identify their career aspirations, personal
values, social recognition, and desires for professional transformation.
A qualitative approach was adopted, based on semi-structured interviews
conducted with 21 young adults (Lebanese and Tunisian) with low
educational qualifications. The analysis of the interviews revealed
recurring themes such as perceptions of work, personal fulfilment,
autonomy, and social recognition.
The findings show that Tunisian and Lebanese young adults share common
aspirations, notably the pursuit of socially respected work, professional
autonomy, and personal growth. However, context-specific differences
emerge in their perceptions of decent employment and social recognition:
Lebanese youth appear to be more affected by socio-economic constraints,

while Tunisian youth place greater importance on rewarding working
conditions and career prospects.
These results open avenues for future research and call for public policies
that promote well-being at work and self-realisation among young adults,
particularly in fragile socio-economic contexts.