Islamabad: A recent global study conducted by the Worldwide Independent Network of Market Research (WIN) reveals that while a majority of young people remain hopeful about their personal futures, they are less convinced than older generations that they have more opportunities than their predecessors. The study, which surveyed over 45,000 people across 45 countries, found that 63% of youth globally are optimistic about their future, with nuanced perspectives on economic prospects and migration.

According to Gilani Research Foundation, the findings show that in Pakistan, 65% of young people remain hopeful about the future, though 44% are open to migrating for better opportunities, and 26% believe they have fewer opportunities than their parents. This pattern of cautious optimism is reflected globally, with only 47% of young people feeling their generation has more opportunities than the previous one. In contrast, older adults, particularly those over 65, tend to believe their generation had more opportunities.

The study highlights significant disparities in perceptions of opportunity across different countries. While optimism is prevalent in countries like Vietnam and Georgia, where a majority of young people feel better off than previous generations, pessimism is more common in South Korea, Slovenia, and Italy. In the United States, 45% of young people believe their generation faces fewer opportunities.

Home ownership remains a critical aspiration for young people, yet many doubt its attainability. Only 8% of young adults currently own a home, and while 56% hope to own one in the future, 27% believe it will never be financially feasible. This skepticism is particularly pronounced in developed economies like South Korea and the United States.

Despite these concerns, young people are the most willing age group to consider emigrating for better opportunities, with 66% open to the idea. However, this willingness varies by country, with young people in Japan, Malaysia, and India showing less interest in moving abroad despite mixed feelings about domestic opportunities.

The gender gap also plays a role, as young women consistently report lower levels of optimism and greater doubts about home ownership than their male counterparts. These differences may stem from varying economic and social expectations.

Richard Colwell, President of WIN International Association, noted that young people’s hope for their future persists even amid uncertainties about broader progress. He emphasized that this generation balances optimism with realism, acknowledging the challenges ahead while maintaining belief in their personal potential.