Young people across the European Union – i.e. those aged between 15 and 30 – are becoming more involved in organisations, social initiatives and activities, according to a new Eurobarometer survey.
As the survey found, some three quarters (75%) of young people in this age cohort had participated in the activities of at least one organisation during the previous 12 months, up from 64% in 2024.
Sports clubs were the most common form of organisation joined by young people, attracting 26% of respondents, followed by youth clubs and youth organisations at 20%.
Participation in initiatives aimed at bringing about societal change also increased. Some 55% of young people said they had taken part in at least one such initiative during the previous year, compared with 48% in 2024.
In addition, six in ten respondents, or 60%, said they had taken part in activities in another EU country, including studying, cultural and sports exchanges, and volunteering. This represented an increase of 17 percentage points compared with a similar survey in 2024.
The survey was published as part of the Commission’s Protect What Matters – Our Democracy campaign, which encourages citizens to take an active role in shaping EU democracy.
‘Engaged in the future’
“We can see from the findings of this Eurobarometer on Youth and Democracy that young people are directly and passionately engaged in the future of European democracy,” commented Roxana Mînzatu, executive vice-president for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness, European Commission.
“But they also make clear that more engagement in society should mean more opportunities and access in society. It is our job, together, to reduce barriers to entry that young people face, both in education and the job market. We owe this to our next generation of citizens.”
Daily impact
The findings showed that 75% of young Europeans believe EU actions have an impact on their daily lives. When asked what they expected the EU to deliver for their generation, a third (33%) identified preserving peace, while 32% cited tackling poverty and economic and social inequalities. Increasing job opportunities for young people was mentioned by 31%.
Employment and the cost of living were also the leading priorities for future youth policies. Some 40% of respondents said these issues should receive the greatest attention. Ensuring that young people and youth organisations have a say in decision-making and providing financial support for youth programmes were each cited by 32%. A further 29% wanted greater awareness of available policies and opportunities.
Voting in elections (33%) and engaging on social media (32%) were also identified as the most effective ways for young people to make their voices heard. Read more here.
