Young Cypriots rank last in EU for social change initiatives, Eurobarometer survey finds

Nicosia, Cyprus. Young people in Cyprus are the least likely in the European Union to have taken part in efforts to bring about social change, with 26 per cent reporting involvement in at least one such initiative over the past year. The result comes from the latest Eurobarometer survey on youth and democracy, which covered respondents aged 15 to 30 across all 27 member states.

Europe-wide participation

Across the EU, an average of 55 per cent of young people took part in at least one initiative for social change in the past year, compared with 48 per cent in 2024. The survey counted actions such as signing a petition, attending a rally or writing to a politician.

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Luxembourg recorded the highest share at 73 per cent, followed by Malta at 70 per cent and Belgium at 64 per cent.

Main areas of engagement

Human rights drew the most involvement, at 36 per cent, and came first in 23 of the 27 member states. Equal rights followed with 33 per cent, and health and well-being with 30 per cent.

Organisations and activities

The survey also points to rising overall engagement among young Europeans. In the last 12 months, 75 per cent took part in the activities of at least one organisation, up from 64 per cent in 2024. Sports clubs organised most of these activities, at 26 per cent, followed by youth clubs or youth organisations at 20 per cent.