More than half of young Europeans feel lonely
A study by the Bertelsmann Foundation shows that loneliness affects 57 percent of young people in the EU. The rates are particularly high in France. Education, social participation, and political engagement can help.
Loneliness is a widespread phenomenon among young people in the EU. According to the study "Loneliness among young people in 2024 in a European comparison" by the Bertelsmann Stiftung, more than half of 18 to 35-year-olds feel at least moderately lonely. In France, the figures are particularly alarming, with 63% feeling moderately lonely and 23% feeling very lonely. Germany is lower at 51% moderate loneliness and 12% severe loneliness, while young Dutch people have the lowest levels of severe loneliness.
According to Leander Berner, youth expert at the Bertelsmann Stiftung, loneliness is not only an individual problem, but also a social one: "Loneliness can reduce the feeling of belonging to society and thus also become a social and political problem. This is precisely why we should tackle loneliness together as a society and not stigmatize those affected."
The study shows that education plays an important role. People with a low level of education are more frequently affected by loneliness. Better stress management and social participation through higher education could be reasons for this.
To effectively reduce loneliness, Anja Langness from the Bertelsmann Stiftung recommends: "By actively involving young people in the design and implementation of initiatives, we create solutions that truly meet their needs." The proposed measures include transnational exchange, social counseling services and the promotion of emotional skills.
