A new Eurobarometer Youth Survey, published on Monday, highlights the biggest concerns of young Europeans aged 16 to 30. The findings reveal that rising prices and the cost of living are the top concerns for 40% of respondents. Meanwhile, climate change and environmental issues (33%) and economic stability and job creation (31%) were also identified as major priorities for the European Union over the next five years.
The survey, conducted across all 27 EU member states, gathered insights from 25,863 young people through online interviews. It identified the most pressing issues for Europe’s youth:
- Rising prices and cost of living – 40%
- Climate change and environmental protection – 33%
- Economic situation and job creation – 31%
- Social protection, welfare, and healthcare access – 29%
- Education and training – 27%
- Housing concerns – 23%
- EU defence and security – 21%
Notably, defence and security emerged as a top concern in Czechia (36%), Poland (33%), and Estonia (32%), where geopolitical tensions remain high.
SOCIAL MEDIA OVERTAKES TV AS THE MAIN NEWS SOURCE
The survey found a significant shift in how young Europeans consume information. 42% of respondents cited social media as their primary source of news on political and social issues, while television came in second at 39%.
- 16-18-year-olds rely more on social media (45%) and friends, family, or colleagues (29%).
- 25-30-year-olds are more likely to turn to TV (52%), news websites, and radio than younger respondents.
Instagram (47%) and TikTok (39%) are the most popular platforms for political and social news among young people, while X (formerly Twitter) is used by only 21% of respondents.
AWARENESS OF DISINFORMATION AND FAKE NEWS
The survey also sheds light on concerns over disinformation. 76% of young people believe they have been exposed to fake news, with Malta (59%), Hungary (58%), and Greece (57%) reporting the highest exposure rates.
Despite this, 70% of young Europeans feel confident in their ability to recognize disinformation. Respondents in Malta and Croatia were the most confident, while those in Austria, Germany, and Slovenia felt the least equipped to identify fake news.