A new global survey reveals deep concerns among young people worldwide. Over 57 percent cite financial issues as a major source of stress or anxiety. The findings highlight a generation grappling with economic pressures while identifying key trends for the future.
Inequality Emerges as Top Economic Fear
The World Economic Forum's Youth Pulse 2026 report gathered insights from nearly 4,600 individuals aged 18 to 30. These participants came from 144 different countries and territories. The survey aimed to understand how the next generation interprets rapid global changes.
Nearly half of respondents, 48.2 percent, identified growing inequality between rich and poor as the top economic trend shaping their future. This concern overshadowed other economic issues. On a personal level, 51 percent cited inflation and instability as their greatest worries.
Regional Variations in Economic Outlook
The survey noted interesting regional differences. In Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, entrepreneurship emerged as the most powerful economic force. Young people in these regions show growing confidence in innovation and self-determination. They see these as key drivers of opportunity despite broader economic challenges.
Youth Priorities: Practical and Policy-Ready
Young people expressed clear preferences for empowering measures. Creating employment opportunities for youth topped the list at 57.2 percent. Equal access to affordable, quality education followed at 46.1 percent. Affordable housing and financial independence came in at 32.2 percent.
Climate change remains a defining global concern. More than 56 percent identified climate change and environmental degradation as the greatest threat to the world. Another 41 percent called it the second most significant threat to their personal lives.
Political Engagement and Leadership
Despite worries about geopolitical tensions and democratic erosion, nearly half of respondents highlighted positive political shifts. These include innovative governance models and greater civic participation. Stronger international cooperation and inclusion of under-represented groups also received mention.
The survey challenges assumptions of political apathy among youth. Thirty-six percent said they are likely to run for political office. This suggests a generation ready to govern, not just critique existing systems.
Young people rated community leaders as most effective in driving positive change. Sixty percent endorsed this view, reinforcing demand for proximate, accountable leadership. A vast majority, 95 percent, said intentionally designed youth communities provide critical spaces for learning and dialogue.
Technology and Artificial Intelligence
Two-thirds of respondents believed artificial intelligence would reduce entry-level job opportunities. This underscores awareness of technological disruption. It also highlights the need for adaptive skills and forward-looking policies.
Nearly 60 percent of young people reported using AI regularly to enhance their skills. Another third experiment with AI occasionally. Only a small minority remains unengaged with these tools. Regular AI use appears high across regions, challenging assumptions that digital innovation concentrates in few markets.
Documented Impact and Future Discussions
The report documented more than 800 youth-led solutions advanced over the past year. These initiatives directly reached over 2.2 million people worldwide. The survey results will likely receive wide discussion during the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. The meeting runs from January 19 to 23.
