YOUTH 2020 - The position of young people in Slovenia

10 The research is an important starting point for the preparation of new measures, which will primarily be reflected in the new National Youth Program for the next nine years, and the research is certainly a good ba- sis for creating other policies related to youth. Some data in the study is not surprising; for example, demographic trends are clear and worrying, as they raise many issues that are impor- tant not only for young people but for society as a whole. The trends are in dire need of change, hopefully through appropriate measures, which ensure a decent life for all. Solutions should not end with providing a pension fund and long-term care. We need to monitor the situation of young people, who will bear the burden of demographic change. Therefore, the findings of the study concerning loneliness, anxiety, in- creased stress, and a significant decline in young people’s general satis- faction with life are extremely worrying. Mental health is extremely im- portant for individual and societal health. The fact that young people in Slovenia have significantly changed their expectations in the last decade and increasingly agree to insecure employment, which makes it increas- ingly difficult to find appropriate housing, continues to degrade mental health as well as affect the economy, education, and values ​that build our Western European civilization. The study also shows that positive effects of previous measures, based on earlier studies. Young people are increasingly taking care of their health, are more active in sports, culture, and politics, and are seeking out further education in non-formal and informal forms. There are many challenges ahead of us that we must and can address and solve with ap- propriate youth policies. This must be done with young people for young people and for all of society. In the future, the Office of the Republic of Slovenia for Youth will strive to address the results of the study and support them with measures and appropriate financial support. The first step towards this is certainly the establishment of the National Youth Program, which will be designed together with decision-makers and representatives of young people based on of theMladina 2020 (Youth 2020) study. Our task is also tomon- itor the implementation of the National Program as well as appropriate