AI, rising costs, climate change among key youth concerns: WEF report

The WEF's survey of nearly 4,600 young people from 489 locations worldwide found that half viewed inflation and economic instability as the greatest threats to their lives

Financial strain is the foremost source of stress for young people, of whom many believe Artificial Intelligence (AI) may reduce entry-level job opportunities, according to ‘Youth Pulse 2026’, the World Economic Forum’s (WEF’s) flagship report on youth perspectives, released on Monday.

 

The WEF’s survey of nearly 4,600 young people from 489 locations worldwide found half viewing inflation and instability as the greatest threats to their lives and deepening inequality as the leading economic trend shaping the future.

 

While 51 per cent of respondents cited inflation and instability as their greatest personal worries, 41 per cent viewed climate change as the second most significant threat to their own lives.

   

Around 60 per cent of youngsters surveyed said that they used AI regularly to enhance their skills even as 66 per cent said that AI will reduce the number of entry-level roles available over the next three years, reflecting concern about automation’s impact on early career pathways. Only a small minority have not yet engaged with AI tools. More than half of respondents -- 57 per cent -- called for the creation of quality jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities for young people.

 

Nearly nine in 10 survey respondents identify the rapid growth of AI as the most transformative technological force of the coming years.

 

“Many are adapting – diversifying income, upskilling and pursuing creative or entrepreneurial paths that align with their values and aspirations,” the report said. The survey found that young people are diversifying income through side hustles, freelance work and small ventures – particularly in digital and service sectors.

 

Amid policy interventions, employment stood as the top priority, with 57 per cent of respondents calling for the creation of meaningful economic opportunities.

 

Beyond jobs, equal access to affordable, quality education was the second most-cited policy priority in the report followed by affordable housing and by greater youth representation in decision-making.

 

“While previous generations equated prosperity with stability, young people today emphasise meaning, flexibility and alignment with personal values,” the WEF report said.

 

Fifty-six per cent of survey respondents identified climate change and environmental degradation as the top global risk – well ahead of armed conflict 44 per cent and governance failures 29 per cent.

 

Despite concern over geopolitical tensions nearly half of respondents highlighted positive political shifts – from innovative governance models and greater civic participation to stronger international cooperation and the inclusion of under-represented groups in policy-making.

 

“The findings of this report underscore that young people are not only signalling the need for change, they are actively engaging with new approaches to leadership, work, technology and environmental stewardship,” the Youth Pulse 2026 report said.

 

The report noted that digital life is no longer separate from social life with youth having near constant engagement across online platforms and tools.