Washington (CNN) -- The United States is quickening the rate at which it is stepping back in Afghanistan.

CNN: Obama, Karzai agree to accelerate military transition

But there is also a belief that establishing a cap - even at a higher rate - is an important stepping stone.

BBC: Social care: The ?75,000 question

Stepping back from all the data, the big picture still shows a high rate of unemployment for young people, even after the recession.

FORBES: It Still Pays To Get A College Degree