Arbeitsmarkt: Jugendforscher Albert: „Ich würde die Gen Z als ‚lost generation‘ bezeichnen“

Mathias Albert, the author of the Shell-Jugendstudie, paints a concerning picture of Generation Z, calling them "the lost generation". This generation has faced multiple upheavals, including the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the advent of AI in the job market. Albert believes this generation is not just uncertain, but also without prospects.

The future trajectory of AI and its impact on the job market remains uncertain, but those with middle-level education and vocational training seem somewhat insulated from its immediate effects. However, the situation is alarming for other young people, particularly those with high-level educational qualifications. Albert points out that AI might make their degrees obsolete, making it unclear what they can do with their qualifications and whether they'll secure jobs.

This uncertainty is causing increasing apathy, polarization, and a sense of directionlessness among young people. The development could have significant implications for democracy, potentially benefiting political extremes that exploit such anxiety. The absence of a compelling narrative of a positive future, especially for the younger generation, appears to be contributing to political disengagement and radicalization.

The political parties, particularly the AfD, are actively capitalizing on this narrative gap. The current political discourse seems to dismiss the concerns of younger voters, exacerbating their disenchantment with the political system.