How do young Europeans perceive themselves and their future? How do they engage with democracy? These pivotal questions were addressed at the Policy Breakfast on Youth Engagement and the Future of Europe, held on December 3, 2024, in the European Parliament, where the TUI Foundation presented its latest findings from the TUI Youth Study 2024. Since 2017, the Foundation has conducted an annual survey of young people from Germany, France, Spain, Greece, Italy, and Poland to amplify their voices in the European discourse.

The event, moderated by Dr. Ralf Pastleitner, Director Public Policy at TUI Group, provided a platform for experts to discuss key findings from this year’s study, offering valuable insights into the shifting attitudes of Europe’s youth. Prof. Thorsten Faas of the Free University of Berlin, a leading researcher on the study, highlighted a crucial aspect: “When we speak of young people, we often assume they are a homogeneous group, but the opposite is true. Whilst they share common aspirations, their concerns are diverse and varied,” Faas remarked. The Member of the European Parliament Jan-Christoph Oetjen, who hosted the event, emphasized that political parties need to rethink their approach: “It’s crucial for political leaders to adapt their communication to regain young people’s trust. They demand clarity, honesty, and tangible results. Politicians need to speak in a way that is accessible and accountable.”

One of the most striking findings of the study is the prevalence of hybrid identities among young Europeans. Between 50 and 70 percent of respondents from the six participating countries identified as both European and national citizens. Prof. Faas explained, “Hybrid identities dominate. Only a minority of young people see themselves exclusively as citizens of their home country.” He further noted, “European identity is largely stable over time, with young people embracing both their national and European affiliations.”

A major point of discussion at the breakfast revolved around young people's relationship with democracy. The study reveals that whilst the majority of young Europeans are supportive of democratic principles, with 53 percent citing democracy’s strengths—particularly in safeguarding freedoms, human rights, and the rule of law—there is significant criticism regarding its implementation. Prof. Faas elaborated: “The concerns young people have are not about democracy as a system, but about its functioning. They see its structural value but feel frustrated by inefficiencies and slow decision-making. They want a more responsive and accountable governance.”

The panel discussions emphasized the urgent need to better engage youth in shaping Europe’s future. Elke Hlawatschek, Executive Director of the TUI Foundation, emphasized the importance of giving young people a platform to express their views: “Only 17 percent of young people feel represented by their national parliament or the European Parliament. This is a serious issue that requires our attention,” she said. “By understanding their concerns and aspirations, we can bridge the gap between youth and the European Union and empower them to take an active role in shaping their future.”

The discussion reinforced the importance of fostering an inclusive and dynamic Europe, one that actively listens to the concerns of its younger citizens. As Dr. Ralf Pastleitner concluded, “Our role is to foster dialogue, ensure young people feel heard, and act on their concerns. Only then can we build a more inclusive and sustainable Europe that reflects their aspirations and meets their expectations.” The full results of the TUI Youth Study 2024 can be accessed here, offering further insights into the challenges and opportunities for Europe’s future.