National Social Monitor The Future Starts Now: Policies for the Next Generation

The Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026 passes to Ireland and presents a strategic and timely opportunity to strengthen the voice, agency, and inclusion of young people in national and European policymaking. Ireland has an opportunity to lead by example, championing youth-centred policymaking that is evidence-based, rights-focused, and aligned with the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027. 

Europe and Ireland are undergoing continuous and rapid changes; environmental, social, political, economic, and technological marked by evolving labour markets, climate adaptations, digital transformation, and increasing pressures on wellbeing and social cohesion. Ireland’s Presidency of the EU will need to reflect and meet these challenges. 

Young people continue to articulate the need for greater participation in democratic processes, more equitable access to education and employment, stronger mental health supports, and meaningful climate action. 

In Ireland, the National Policy Framework for Children and Young People and the commitment to youth participation through structures such as Comhairle na nÓg and the EU Youth Dialogue provide a strong foundation for the inclusion of young people in policymaking. However, emerging challenges—including the cost of living, housing pressures, digital literacy and safety, and the need for a just green transition—require renewed focus and stronger cross-sectoral coordination. 

In this Spring 2026 edition of our National Social Monitor, Social Justice Ireland outlines the present situation on a range of policy issues that impact on young people’s wellbeing and looks at whether policy is addressing the issues to ensure a fair and sustainable future for the young today. This edition of the National Social Monitor does not attempt to cover all the issues. It is offered as a contribution to the ongoing public debate.