Mahendra Tiwari
The world is changing rapidly. Unprecedented progress is being made in science, technology, education, and communication. Large industries are being established, and claims of economic growth are being made. Despite this, the young generation in many countries around the world is worried about their future. Lack of employment, inflation, expensive housing, rising education costs, and economic insecurity pose serious challenges for young people. This is why their concerns are no longer limited to personal problems but are becoming an international issue.
Recent youth-led protests in several European countries, including Germany and France, have brought this problem to global attention. In these movements, young people have demanded better education, employment opportunities, affordable housing, and relief from the rising cost of living. These events clearly demonstrate that economic growth statistics and the actual living conditions of ordinary citizens do not always align.
According to a report published by the International Labour Organization in August 2026, the global youth unemployment rate rose to 12.4 percent in 2025. Approximately 67 million young people were unemployed. The report also indicates that finding employment has become more difficult for young people in developed economies. In North America, the youth unemployment rate increased from 8.3 percent in 2023 to 9.8 percent in 2025. In Northern, Southern, and Western Europe, the rate was around 15 percent.
These statistics don’t just mean that young people are struggling to find jobs. A major problem is the quality of employment. Many young people struggle to find work commensurate with their qualifications. Some find temporary employment, while others are forced to work for low wages. Even after finding a job, there’s no certainty that their income will be regular and their future secure.
When achieving economic independence even after completing an education becomes difficult, it’s natural for young people to become frustrated.
Another major cause of youth economic concerns is the rising cost of living. Expenses for food, transportation, electricity, healthcare, and housing constantly strain their budgets. High rent rates, especially in large cities, are making it increasingly difficult for low-income youth to live independently.
Housing and inflation were prominent issues during recent protests in Europe. When a large portion of a young person’s income is spent solely on rent and essential goods, it becomes difficult to save, start a family, or invest for their future.
This problem is not limited to Europe. In large cities across many developing countries, including India, young people struggle to balance education, employment, and housing. The dream of economic independence remains unfulfilled when meeting basic needs becomes a challenge despite a regular income.
On October 31, 2026, youth-led protests took place in 34 cities across Germany. Protesters demanded increased investment in education and healthcare, lowering the cost of living, and opposing compulsory military service. Most demonstrations were peaceful, although incidents of violence and vandalism occurred at some locations.
In France, youth and other social groups also protested against problems in the education system, public services, inflation, and employment. These movements reflected a common sentiment. Young people felt their concerns were not being taken seriously enough and that their needs were not given due consideration when formulating policies.
These incidents should not be viewed solely as law and order issues. Peaceful protests are a means of expressing one’s voice in a democracy. Governments should consider the economic and social causes of discontent while preventing violence.
Artificial intelligence and automation have created new opportunities in the employment world, but they are also changing the nature of some traditional jobs. According to a report by the International Labour Organization, approximately 6.1 percent of jobs held by youth aged 15 to 29 are in sectors most likely to be impacted by changes related to artificial intelligence.
This does not mean that all these jobs will disappear. Rather, the nature of many jobs may change, increasing the need for new skills. Problems arise when the education and training system fails to adapt to this change in a timely manner.
Therefore, instead of simply providing certificates, emphasis should be placed on developing practical knowledge, technical proficiency, creative thinking, and problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, working people should also be provided with opportunities to learn new skills.
India’s youth population represents one of the country’s greatest potentials. But to transform this potential into real strength, it is essential to provide adequate and respectable employment. The aspirations of educated youth are rising. They seek economic independence, a secure future, and opportunities to advance according to their abilities.
If quality jobs don’t increase alongside economic growth, the gap between youth expectations and actual opportunities could persist. Lack of employment opportunities in rural areas, limited availability of work for women, and inconsistent employment opportunities are some of the reasons behind this.
(The author is a freelancer and can be reached at [email protected])
