Being Young in Europe: What Truly Unites Us?
We live in a world of constant change, where the certainties of the past fade away and new challenges arise every day with force. Growing up today means facing a complex and often uncertain present, where finding one’s place is never easy. Technology, globalization, social and environmental transformations shape the way we live, study, work, and relate to others.
In this context, what does it mean to be young? What are the experiences, needs, and aspirations that unite us, even when we come from different backgrounds? When we talk about young people in Europe, we speak of a diverse and multicultural group, where many identities, languages, and traditions coexist. Yet, despite this diversity, there is a subtle thread that connects our stories: the desire to feel part of something bigger, to build relationships, and to give meaning to our journey. The challenges we face are often similar: uncertainty in finding stable employment, the pressure to choose educational and professional paths that can guarantee a future, and the need for safe spaces where we can express our ideas without judgment. We also share the desire for freedom—not only geographic or physical freedom but also the freedom to be heard and recognized for who we are.
At the European level, various youth policies and initiatives have emerged in recent years to respond to these needs. Programs like Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps have opened doors for thousands of young people, offering opportunities for mobility, training, and volunteering. These tools are essential because they allow us to overcome national and cultural borders, fostering mutual understanding and personal growth.
Being young in Europe thus means setting out on a journey, meeting others, accepting differences, and building together a network of solidarity and cooperation. It also means feeling part of a community whose core values are respect, participation, and responsibility. On this International Youth Day, we remember that the true power of young people lies precisely in this: the ability to be bridges, to transform diversity into opportunity, and to act with courage and curiosity for a better future.
Our path as young Europeans is made up of small daily steps, cultural exchanges, dialogues, and shared challenges. It is an open challenge that requires everyone’s contribution and that can transform Europe into an increasingly inclusive and opportunity-rich place.
By Leonardo Brecchia