Introduction
A recent conversation with my younger children, both millennials, left me concerned. Despite their strong values and hard-earned education, they spoke calmly about a sentiment I had heard before: they don’t feel that the future belongs to them. They have confidence in themselves but doubt their surroundings, including their country, institutions, and the world’s direction.
Historical Context: 2011 Survey Findings
In 2011, the “Young People of the World” survey conducted by Paris-based Fondapol and Brussels-based TNS Opinion revealed that 73% of Mexican youth saw globalization as an opportunity, 81% believed their future looked bright, and 84% were confident in securing a good job. However, only 23% trusted Mexico’s future, with most placing faith in individual effort for success.
Current State: 2023 ENCOAP Survey Findings
Fourteen years later, idealistic hope has given way to critical awareness. According to the 2023 National Survey on Trust in Public Administration (ENCOAP) by Mexico’s Inegi, only 6.7% of millennials and 9.1% of Gen Z express high trust in the federal government, while 1% of millennials and 1.4% of Gen Z show low trust. The majority express moderate or indifferent levels, confirming persistent institutional distrust.
Shifting Priorities
Priorities have also shifted. In 2011, globalization was seen as a train to hop on; today, millennials (1981-1996) and Gen Z (1997-2012) prioritize sustainability, social justice, and mental health. The 2024 Gen Z and Millennial Survey by Deloitte, conducted among 22,841 young people in 44 countries including Mexico, found that 62% of Gen Z and 59% of millennials consider sustainability a primary concern. Moreover, 86% believe having a purpose in their work is essential, compared to 62% in 2011 who saw a successful career as high income.
Environmental Concerns and Institutional Distrust
In 2011, only 38% considered pollution a threat; today, the environment is not just a concern but influences their worldview and decision-making in consumption, employment, and family. Then, 34% felt close to the Catholic Church; now, distrust extends to political parties, churches, congresses, media, and all institutional figures, with only one in five young people believing in politicians.
Digital Environment Changes
The digital environment has also transformed. In 2011, social networks were recreational spaces; today, they are platforms for protest, showcases of anxiety, and battlefields of ideology. TikTok and X provide information and activism but also spread misinformation, social pressure, and emotional exhaustion.
Changing Attitudes Towards Parenthood
In 2011, 37% wanted children; today, likely fewer due to precarity, climate crisis, and uncertainty. Many opt against replicating a life model without guarantees.
Key Questions and Answers
- Is this generation better? I don’t know. But they are more realistic, informed, and skeptical. Their lack of trust in those in power remains unchanged.
