The Youth Trend Study the Netherlands 2026 by the Institute for Generation Research examines current attitudes, future concerns and social expectations of young people, with a particular focus on members of Generation Z (16 to 29-year-olds).
 
Results from the 2026 study were analysed in relation to findings from previous studies conducted among young people in Switzerland and Germany. By comparing answers given by the youth in the Netherlands to those of their peers in Germany and Switzerland, distinct trends, shared developments, and possible misperceptions could be identified in a differentiated manner. This additionally provides a basis for mutual learning between the participant countries.
 
The study focuses on key topics such as personal fears and uncertainties, individual perceptions of security, the housing market situation, attitudes towards war and global crises, political orientation and social media and AI, questions surrounding compulsory military service, and dealing with the quarter-life crisis, growing up and one's own role in an increasingly complex world. Attitudes towards personalities such as Donald Trump and the influence of geopolitical developments were also surveyed to capture a comprehensive picture of the mood of the younger generation.
 
The aim is to paint a nuanced and fact-based picture of a generation in transition—and to relate this to young Swiss and Germans. 
 
The results of the study were grouped into the following thematic areas. We selected what we consider to be the most important and representative findings and have presented them in a structured manner below:
Housing and wellbeing
Dealing with social media
AI and social issues 
Fears and sense of security
Quarter-Life Crisis
Politics, defence, pride and cultural attitude