Research from academia, business, government and civil society reveals a troubling truth: anxiety among young people is escalating across all regions and socioeconomic backgrounds. This generation faces not only personal fears of job loss and insecurity but also existential threats that cast a shadow over their future. Globally, two-thirds of young people cite job instability as a primary source of anxiety, with one in three young Africans expressing extreme anxiety about their job prospects. In North America, Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, 64% of young people feel worse off than their parents. Alarmingly, the percentage of 25-year-olds in the US who are financially independent from their parents has decreased from 73% in 1980 to just 60% in 2024.5 Currently, the anxiety faced by young people is compounded by fears of worsening armed conflicts and involuntary migration. In 2024, crises in Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza and Israel have galvanized youth globally, highlighting their solidarity with those most affected by violence. Young people often shoulder the burdens of societal upheaval, participating in response efforts and taking on additional family responsibilities, while many are forced to leave school or are cut off from essential services like healthcare and nutrition. With more countries embroiled in conflict than at any time in the last 30 years, young people are left particularly vulnerable. A large number of migrant and displaced people are under 30, often fleeing their homes due to limited employment prospects and unsafe living conditions. For those not directly affected by conflict, the relentless barrage of news and social media also exacerbates feelings of helplessness. Many young people report feeling overwhelmed by global crises – intensifying their urgency to speak out against inaction. Climate change further intensifies young people’s anxieties. According to the World Meteorological Organization, 2024 is on track to be the warmest year on record,6 and so it’s no surprise that 60% of those under 30 are very or extremely worried about climate change,7 nature and biodiversity loss, extreme weather and natural resource shortages. Feelings of powerlessness are pervasive, with 83% believing that governments and businesses have failed to care for the planet,8 betraying their future. In light of these multifaceted anxieties, young people are calling for urgent action. They want governments to prioritize peace and protect the most vulnerable, while holding businesses accountable for financing conflict and exacerbating climate change. Young people want policy-makers to meaningfully include them in climate and peace negotiations, ensuring their voices are central to the decision-making processes that affect their futures – and they are advocating for accessible, affordable and culturally sensitive mental health support services designed specifically for those navigating the unique challenges of this generation.1.3 Social outlook: navigating anxiety amid uncertainties Youth displaced by conflict are not only navigating the trauma of leaving home but also facing barriers to culturally sensitive mental health care. Through youth-led projects like Memnun, we’re addressing these needs with tailored support that empowers young refugees and migrants to rebuild resilience and thrive amidst adversity. Faissal Sharif, Global Shaper, London III Hub, UK 14 14 Global Shapers Impact Report

Global Shapers Impact Report 2025