Trust in institutions by age group, EU, 2020–2024, (scale 1–10)

Living and working in Europe 2024 provides a snapshot of Eurofound’s key research findings on the changing nature of work and life across the EU. Labour and skills shortages continued to dominate policy debates, as structural issues linked to demographic shifts, poor job quality and the demands of the green and digital transitions intensified recruitment challenges. The report examines how the cost-of-living crisis has persisted – despite easing inflation – and continues to affect households across income levels. It also explores the ongoing housing crisis, which is delaying key life transitions for young people and contributing to growing social inequality. Meanwhile, access to social protection remains uneven, particularly for unemployed and self-employed workers. Eurofound’s latest survey data also reveal a decline in remote work opportunities, despite worker preferences for hybrid arrangements. The report also highlights declining trust in institutions, closely linked to financial insecurity. Taken together, the findings capture the challenges and opportunities of this period of profound transition, reinforcing the importance of inclusive, evidence-based policymaking to support a fair and sustainable Europe.

You can also explore the digital version of Living and working in Europe 2024.

Eurofound’s e-survey captures the situation of European respondents and their post-pandemic concerns. This factsheet outlines the most recent data on the main challenges faced by Europeans, with a particular emphasis on the rising cost of living, health and mental health, access to healthcare services, work–life balance, and changes in telework opportunities. View the publication or read the findings in digital format via the related content.