EU survey shows increasing participation by young people in civil society

A new Eurobarometer survey has shown that an increasing number of young people are increasingly participating in civil life. 64% said that they have participated in the activities of one or more organisations in the past 12 months. In addition, 48% reported that they had taken action to change society through signing a petition, participating in a rally, or sending a letter to a politician. In particular, young people were active on topics relating to hum an rights (34%), climate change and environment (33%), health and wellbeing (29%) and equal rights regardless of gender, race or sexuality (29%). Just below two-thirds of young Europeans revealed they intend to vote in the upcoming EP elections.

Young people felt that the education system has prepared them well for some of the challenges that they face. For example, 73% said their education has equipped them with the necessary digital skills to identify disinformation. 72% said their education has taught them to take care of the environment.

Finally, the survey showed that young people continue to have a European outlook. More than 43% have participated in an activity in another EU country. Typical examples of this includes studying or training (16%), volunteering (12%) or working (12%). Nearly half of the surveyed young people (49%) say that they are aware of the funding opportunities offered by Erasmus+, the EU programme for education, training, youth, and sport. In addition, 67% of young people believe that the EU has an impact, at least to some extent, on their daily life, while 26% say it does not and 7% don’t know.