2024 Was a Difficult Year of Change — But Young People See 2025 as a Year of Hope

“Change” and “difficulty” were the words most often used by 15–39-year-olds to describe the past year (2024), while “hope” was the most common word associated with 2025. A new study by the Youth Research Institute also reveals that most young people are optimistic about their relationships and future plans. 

At the beginning of the year, the Youth Research Institute conducted a representative survey asking Hungarian youth aged 15–39 how they experienced 2024 and what they expect from 2025. For 2024, the most frequently mentioned words were “change,” “difficult,” and “chaos.” Every second respondent (52%) said they were forced to face unexpected events during the year — a sentiment particularly strong among those who are still students. 

Despite this, family and friendships were mostly characterised by happiness (50%), and a relative majority (40%) felt that 2024 was a successful year in terms of achieving personal goals. While respondents across age groups assessed their interpersonal relationships similarly positively, younger cohorts were more likely to view 2024 positively: 50% of 15–17-year-olds said 2024 was a success, compared to about one-third of those over 35. 

Looking ahead to 2025, “hope” was the defining descriptor, but other frequent terms included “success,” “expectation,” and “growth.” Most respondents anticipate unexpected events this year (41%). Two-thirds believe their personal relationships will be marked by happiness, and an equal share are hopeful that their plans will come to fruition. The most optimistic outlook came from 15–17-year-olds, with 83% believing that their relationships will be characterised by happiness in 2025. 

Comparing perceptions of 2024 and expectations for 2025, the research highlights a fundamentally optimistic attitude — both in terms of interpersonal connections and the realisation of personal plans. 

The Youth Research Institute conducted the survey in January 2025 among 1,000 Hungarian youth aged 15–39, using CAWI methodology (online self-completed questionnaires) and a representative sample.