Youth in Montenegro and Serbia face digital and economic challenges

Recent research highlights distinct socio-economic and digital challenges facing youth in Montenegro and Serbia.

In Montenegro, a study by the NGO Juventas reveals that 18 percent of young people spend more than five hours daily on social media. Instagram is the most dominant platform at 93.4 percent, followed by YouTube at 82.5 percent and TikTok at 76.7 percent. The report notes that 46 percent of youth follow influencers, suggesting these platforms serve as critical spaces for identity formation and behavioral modeling.

In Serbia, the Alternative Report on the Situation of Youth by the Umbrella Organization of Youth of Serbia (KOMS) indicates significant housing struggles. Over half of young people (56.9 percent) live in family homes, often due to financial constraints. Notably, 27 percent of respondents believe they will never be able to afford their own property and will only be able to inherit it. The report also highlights income disparities, with a significant portion of the youth population earning low wages that limit their independence.