A Generation Under Strain

Young people today are facing mounting pressures across multiple areas of life, with the cost of living emerging as a leading driver of poor mental health, financial insecurity, and pessimism about the future. Alongside this, increased social media use, rising unemployment and underemployment, and disrupted education pathways—particularly since the pandemic—are contributing to loneliness, reduced opportunities, and barriers to stable careers. Evidence also highlights gaps in school preparation for work, limited access to creative opportunities, and a growing number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET). Together, these challenges point to an urgent need for more coordinated support systems, stronger pathways into employment, and greater investment in young people’s wellbeing and potential.  KORI will continue to strengthen our offer and support as many young people as possible.