Only 26% of young Cypriots say they took part in at least one initiative to bring about social change in the past year, placing Cyprus last among the EU’s 27 member states, according to the latest Eurobarometer survey on youth and democracy.
The survey covers young people aged 15 to 30 and examines their participation in civic activities and their views on democracy.
Across the EU, an average of 55% of young people said they had participated in at least one initiative to bring about social change in the previous 12 months. This marked an increase from 48% in 2024.
Luxembourg leads as Cyprus ranks last
Luxembourg recorded the highest level of participation, at 73%, followed by Malta at 70% and Belgium at 64%.
The initiatives included signing a petition, attending a rally or sending a letter to a politician.
Human rights attract the highest engagement
Human rights was the leading area of engagement among young Europeans, with 36% reporting participation in related initiatives. It ranked first in 23 of the EU’s 27 member states.
Equal rights followed at 33%, while health and well-being ranked third at 30%.
More young Europeans are joining organisations
The survey also found an increase in participation in organised activities. Overall, 75% of young Europeans said they had taken part in the activities of at least one organisation in the previous 12 months, compared with 64% in 2024.
Sports clubs were the most common setting, attracting 26% of young people, followed by youth clubs and youth organisations at 20%.
Also read: Europe takes to the streets, but where are the Cypriots?
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