Intergenerational fairness in Europe is increasingly at risk. Young people face rising living costs, unaffordable housing, and growing financial insecurity. But students represent a distinct group within this landscape, with specific vulnerabilities directly linked to their ability to access and complete education. Energy poverty, poor-quality housing, and insufficient student support systems undermine not only students’ living conditions but also their right to learn and participate fully in society.
For the European Students’ Union (ESU), any strategy on intergenerational fairness must explicitly recognise students as their own category, rather than simply a subset of youth. Students often face unique challenges: moving away from home without financial stability, relying on part-time jobs to cover basic needs, and being excluded from social protections available to other groups. These pressures can lead to dropout, limited mobility opportunities, and long-term inequality.
A fair European approach requires strong public investment in accessible higher education, affordable and sustainable student housing, adequate grants, and support services that protect students from poverty. Policies on housing, climate transition, and social protection must reflect the realities experienced by both young people and students.
Intergenerational fairness must ensure that today’s youth — and especially today’s students — are not left carrying disproportionate burdens.