Youth in BiH: Generational Challenges and Future Opportunities

Youth in BiH: Generational Challenges and Future Opportunities

1. Introduction: Generation Gap and Youth in BiH

Young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina today face various challenges shaped by unique social, economic, and technological factors that affect their generation, just like the generations before them. Each generation is shaped by its unique experiences and the conditions it grew up in. These factors play a key role in forming the values, attitudes, and expectations of individuals. Understanding the challenges young people face today requires awareness of their place in the broader generational context.

In America, various generations—such as the ‘Silent Generation,’ ‘Baby Boomers,’ ‘Generation X,’ ‘Millennials,’ and ‘Generation Z’—experienced unique social and economic conditions that shaped their perspectives on work, family, education, and technology. These same principles apply to young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where generations have been shaped by events such as the 1990s war, the shift to a market economy, migration, and rapid technological advancements.

Today’s generation of young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, primarily made up of millennials and Generation Z, faces challenges deeply rooted in the legacy of past generations as well as the unique circumstances of our society. Millennials, for instance, lived through the economic fallout of the global financial crisis and grew up during a period of significant changes in both education and the labor market. On the other hand, Generation Z, or ‘zoomers,’ are fully immersed in the digital world, having grown up with the internet, smartphones, and social media as essential parts of their everyday lives. These technologies have provided them with unlimited access to information, while also exposing them to global challenges like climate change and political instability.

One of the prominent problems that young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina face today is how to navigate a rapidly changing society that nevertheless remains burdened by the legacy of past generations. Technological advancements have shaped Generation Z and millennials in ways that are significantly different from the generations that preceded them. For instance, while older generations found security in stable careers and linear job progression, today’s youth prioritize flexibility, work-life balance, and meaningful work. They are experiencing enormous economic insecurity, driving many to prefer freelance professions and entrepreneurial ventures over traditional forms of employment.

However, young people in BiH also face unique challenges that are specific to our society. The lack of suitable jobs, an outdated education system, and bureaucratic barriers often discourage young people, pushing many to consider leaving the country. Many young people encounter job requirements such as ‘two years of work experience’ for entry-level positions, trapping them in a vicious cycle with no way out. Generation Z and millennials, having grown up with internet access and the opportunities of the global market, often see emigration as the only viable option for achieving better economic prospects.

All this begs the question: How can Generation Z and Millennials find their place in this rapidly changing society? How can we empower and motivate young people, so they not only choose to stay in BiH but also actively participate in shaping their country’s future?

The answers to these questions lie not only in changes to educational and economic policies but also in understanding the deeper psychological needs of young people. As noted by Jean M. Twenge in her book Generations, The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents, each generation has specific motivational factors that shape their goals and behaviors. We must recognize these needs—status, autonomy, and respect—and create an environment where young people in BiH feel valued and empowered to build their future within the borders of their own country.

2. Challenges of different generations: What shaped the present?

Generational differences have always existed, but in today’s fast-paced world, they have become more pronounced than ever. Each generation, from Baby Boomers to Generation Z, carries unique experiences that have shaped their values, expectations, and worldview. The social, economic, and technological contexts in which these generations grew up play a crucial role in shaping their behavior and attitudes, as noted in the book we mentioned earlier.

Baby Boomers (1946–1964): A generation of prosperity and traditional values

Baby boomers, raised in the post-World War II era, experienced an economic boom, industrial expansion, and significant social changes. Their youth was marked by stable employment, chances for career growth, and prosperity, which fostered a deep commitment to traditional values: family, hard work, and stability. This generation also lived through major social movements, like the fight for civil rights, and played a key role in creating a culture of protest and meaningful social change.

For baby boomers, technology wasn’t a central part of daily life. Traditional forms of communication—letters, phone calls, and face-to-face interactions—defined their connections with others. They had time to build long-term relationships, and changes were relatively slower. Though as they aged, they witnessed the digital revolution, and many struggled to adapt to the rapid pace of technological change.

Generation X (1965–1980): Skeptical and independent generation

Generation X, often referred to as the “forgotten generation,” grew up in a time when many of the social and economic foundations that baby boomers took for granted began to crumble. This generation experienced rising divorce rates, economic recessions, and the shift to digital technology. As latchkey kids, many Gen Xers learned independence early, often spending time alone at home while their parents worked. This independence and pragmatism became their defining traits.

Unlike baby boomers, Generation X experienced the first stages of digitalization, but still relied on traditional communication forms like television, radio, and newspapers. They witnessed the beginning of the Internet, but did not grow up completely enveloped by it. Technology was beginning to shape their professional and private lives, and the transition to a fully digital society was just beginning.

Millennials (1981–1996): Digital natives facing uncertainty

Millennials, or Generation Y, are the first generation to grow up with the internet, mobile phones, and social media. Their youth was shaped by technological innovations that transformed how they communicate, learn, and work. Unlike previous generations, millennials developed digital literacy at an early age, giving them easier access to information and global markets.

Millennials also face challenges that previous generations never encountered. The 2008 economic crisis hit this generation hard, making it difficult for many to find stable jobs and achieve financial security, including in our region. Many have postponed traditional life goals, such as buying a home or starting a family, due to these circumstances.

Technology has shaped how they live and work—social networks, apps, and global connectivity became integral to their daily lives. Despite having access to information and technology, millennials often feel that the global economy works against them and that traditional opportunities for advancement are out of reach.

Generation Z (1997–2012): The digital world is in full swing

Generation Z is the first to grow up in a fully digital world, with smartphones, social networks, and apps available from an early age. They are true “digital natives”—most have no experience of a world without the Internet. This generation is the most technologically connected, yet also the most affected by issues like digital anxiety and exhaustion from constant online presence.

For Generation Z, the rapid flow of information plays a crucial role in shaping their daily lives. They expect immediate answers, solutions, and interactions, which often leads to frustration when they are confronted with slower, traditional processes, whether in education, employment, or administration. Their demand for quick and effective solutions is often at odds with the bureaucratic structures that still exist in society.

Generation Z is also confronted with global issues like climate change, social injustice, and economic insecurity, which is why they are often described as pragmatic, yet also cynical. Their connection to technology has granted them access to unlimited information, but it has also made them more critical of traditional power structures and authority.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, where many traditional structures are resistant to change, young people often face challenges rooted in the generation gap. While older generations tend to prioritize stability and caution, young people seek flexibility, innovation, and opportunities that align with the rapid pace of global change. Confronted with bureaucratic barriers and economic insecurity, many young people in BiH are seeking solutions outside their country’s borders, a result of the difficulty in aligning their needs with the current social systems. Understanding these generational differences is crucial for creating opportunities that help young people feel recognized and valued in a society that, though changing slowly, must adapt to the pace of modern life.

3. Youth in BiH today: What do they want and how do they think?

Although the high youth unemployment rate in Bosnia and Herzegovina is frequently discussed, the reality is that many young people are no longer included in the statistics, as they have left the country in search of better opportunities. Those who have stayed face different challenges—they still struggle to find stable jobs, not due to a lack of opportunities, but because of the many obstacles that stand between them and employment. These obstacles include the requirement for formal work experience, internships that are not available to them, and a range of grey economy or low-paid jobs that neither match their ambitions nor provide security.

Young people today seek more than just employment—they are looking for opportunities that allow them to express their talents and ideas, grow, and feel valued. However, bureaucratic and formal obstacles often hinder their progress. Many job openings require previous work experience that young people have not had the chance to gain, or offer volunteer and internship positions that are poorly paid, forcing them to seek insecure and irregular jobs. These conditions not only diminish their motivation but also limit their opportunities for long-term professional development.

Additionally, many young people are faced with offers of undeclared work, leaving them without security or access to social benefits. On the other hand, those with formal contracts are often underpaid and working in positions that don’t match their qualifications. All of this contributes to a growing sense of frustration and insecurity among young people, many of whom are increasingly seeking more stable, safer, and better-paid opportunities abroad. They also face challenges due to the lack of legal regulation for self-employment, particularly in freelancing.

However, their demands and ambitions are not solely focused on employment. Young people seek a sense of autonomy, status, and respect in society, which goes beyond just employment. They want society to recognize them as active participants in decision-making, whether in politics, business, or the civil sector. They want opportunities to work on meaningful projects that allow them to make a real impact on society.

The issue of employment is therefore not just an economic matter, but also one of social standing. Many young people in BiH feel unrecognized and undervalued for what they can contribute, whether it’s innovations, business ideas, or social engagement. Therefore, it’s not surprising that many feel isolated and demotivated, even though they are eager to work and take responsibility for their professional development. They want the opportunity to gain experience without needing prior experience for entry level positions, and a fair chance to show what they can do, free from bureaucratic obstacles that exclude them from employment. Only by ensuring equal opportunities, fair employment prospects, and recognition of their potential can young people in BiH be motivated to stay, work, and contribute to the country’s development.

4. The role of motivation: How can generational approaches help?

Understanding the motivational factors that influence different generations is crucial for developing successful employment strategies and promoting the social inclusion of young people in BiH. Generation Z and millennials, who make up the majority of young people in BiH, have unique needs when it comes to motivation. They do not respond to traditional methods that may have been effective for older generations, such as fear of failure or passive campaigns for employment and social participation. Instead, they seek autonomy, status, and a sense of respect—factors that are essential for them to remain in the country and take an active role in society.

Members of older generations, such as Baby Boomers and Generation X, were motivated by security, stable jobs, and long-term careers. These generations built their lives and careers in an environment where stability and continuous progress were key factors for success. Traditional working relationships, clearly defined hierarchies, and fixed working hours provided them with a sense of security and career advancement.

However, millennials and Generation Z grew up in a completely different environment. Technological advancements, digital transformation, and globalization have shaped their needs and expectations in profound ways. They have been exposed to limitless information and opportunities since childhood, which is why they seek flexibility, creativity, and chances to express themselves independently. Their motivation stems from the belief that their contributions have a purpose and that their work is recognized.

One of the key factors influencing their motivation is autonomy. Young people today want to feel in control of their own lives and careers, with the ability to make decisions that align with their values and goals. This stands in direct contrast to the rigid structures that characterized previous generations, where traditional forms of authority were dominant. For young people in BiH, this means that employers, institutions, and society need to provide more freedom in shaping their work and social roles, allowing them to take more responsibility for their own progress.

Another key factor is the sense of status and recognition. Generation Z and Millennials want their work to be acknowledged and appreciated, whether it’s through their contributions in the workplace or in social initiatives. They don’t want to be just another cog in the machine; instead, they seek opportunities to showcase their skills and have their creativity and innovation recognized and rewarded. In BiH, this is often a challenge because traditional work and employment systems fail to provide sufficient opportunities for young people to thrive, which results in feelings of dissatisfaction and marginalization.

Respect is the third key element of motivation for young people today. They want to be treated as equal members of society and the business community, not as passive recipients of decisions made by older generations. Many young people feel excluded from the decision-making process. The belief that their voice doesn’t matter further diminishes their motivation to stay and actively engage in society. The introduction of participatory methods, supported by youth laws, is a crucial step toward empowering young people.

Employers, institutions, and decision-makers in Bosnia and Herzegovina should create work environments and social opportunities that inspire and motivate young people. Instead of passive campaigns that often fail to meet their actual needs needs, strategies that promote autonomy, recognize skills, and empower through participation can help young people in BiH become active agents of social change.

Author: Jasmin Bešić, CEO of the Institute for Youth Development KULT