ThE
BUZZZ Autumn 2012
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CONTENT EDITO GEF NEWS What it's like to be the 'Generation Y' Page 4 GEF proudly presents its new website Page 5
Focus on career development - Have a look ! Page 5 'Generation Y' calling! Page 6 PORTRAIT Ralph Linde, Director, Audi Academy Page 8 GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
Eco-marathons foster future leaders in innovation Page 10 a DAY in the LIFE of... A Headhunter Page 11 EU IN FOCUS
Youth unemployment in Europe - what's the answer? Page 12 Vote? Why bother... Page 13
日本のグローバル化には柔軟性が必須？ Page 14
KEY FIGURE & QUOTE COMPETITIONS’ CORNER
Copyright © 2012 Generation Europe Foundation. All rights reserved. Publisher: THE BUZZZ is published by Generation Europe Foundation. We welcome your questions and suggestions on info@generation-europe.eu Become a fan on facebook.com/generationeurope Follow us on twitter.com/GenerationEurop Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Generation Europe Foundation.
Cover credit: Corentin Binard Alias SPEAR www.spearart.be
EDITO The Dreams issue Can today’s young people still afford to dream? ‘All our dreams begin in youth,’ said Heinrich Harrer, the famous mountaineer, who in addition to becoming the first person to climb the North Face of the Eiger and spending seven years in Tibet was the living proof that passion can turn your life into an adventure. Growing up as part of the ‘Generation Y’ certainly made many of us believe that we too could achieve anything. In fact, many of us also believed we would get to determine how much adventure we’d have in our life − and how much security. But that was before the economic crisis. Now in its fifth year, the crisis has taken its toll on young people’s feelings about the future, many of whom are finding it hard to get a proper job and to plan their lives (see p.4). In this setting, basic needs such as job security and having a stable income have gained importance, while pursuing one’s dreams has become a luxury that almost nobody can afford. ... but is that really true? Or could it be the other way around − that in a world that has become increasingly unstable and competitive, turning towards our passions can bring not only personal fulfilment but also the ‘extra touch’ we need in order to stand out of the crowd? Whether we pursue a passion alongside our studies or job (find inspiration on p. 10), or by going freelance (see ‘This is my future’ on p.15) − maybe following our dreams is exactly what we should be doing right now. This edition of the ‘Buzzz’ is dedicated to the young generation of today. Enjoy the read! And please share your thoughts with us - yes, we’re present on both Facebook and Twitter!
Annika, GEF Team (Editor-in-Buzzz)
eam, r d e h t g Livin 012 Summer 2
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GEF NEWS What it’s like to be the ‘Generation Y’ In an ideal world, today’s 19-29 year olds would be dreaming of a meaningful job that pays well and allows for family time. In reality, however, many of them struggle with economic uncertainty and instability. If you ask young people across Europe about the plans they have for their lives, you will encounter idealism paired with economic concerns: ‘Making a living’ is the most common answer, but their dreams of ‘having a positive impact on society’ and ‘founding a family’ are also deeply rooted.
‘My main concern is the instability! The fact that I’m not able to make long term plans because of external factors.’ Daniela D., 27, Italy
Their main worry? Without exception ‘unemployment’.
opportunities that they expected, they are hit by the economic crisis.
Career deniers ? GEF asked young Europeans about their level of happiness: Out of ten young people who say they are happy with their private life, only four have a fulfilled professional life, too. On the one hand, this is due to a lack of job security: happiness increases with a permanent contract. On the other hand, many jobs don’t seem to match the expectations of the young. The jobs of the future should be skillsorientated, useful and focused on teamwork. As Ralph Linde, Director at Audi Academy, points out (see p. 8-9), the Millennials expect a professional environment and tend to be sceptical about their superiors’ decisions, unless they are well explained. Our own research shows that, in addition to this, many young people want to have a job which not only meets their skills and talents, but also enables them to make a difference to the world.
The so-called ‘Millennials’ grew up enjoying more opportunities than their Traditional notions of a ‘career’ parents: Growing up in relative wealth have changed, as suggested by a and security, online and connected to Spiegel article about ‘career deniers’ the world, self-assured, well-educated Rather than (Karriereverweigerer ). and with an international a huge pay check and important outlook, they were encouraged to think ‘My generation has been told critically, follow their that we could expect to get a passions and make the dream job − a job which we like most of life. This attitude and that allows us to gather still characterises a certain wealth and leaves us time to devote to our families − but this today’s graduates and perspective has been progressively ruined.’ young professionals − but Fátima G., 29, Spain instead of finding all these
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status, it’s the work-life balance and professional freedom that determine a young person’s career choices. Few are willing to dedicate themselves 24/7 to their company. However, as Tom Healy clarified in his article ‘Five Huge Myths About Generation Y in the Workplace’, the Millennials are neither lazy nor arrogant − they are ready to give their best if the best is given to them in return.
‘I am happy with my professional life, as I like what I do in my job. But I would like to find a better balance between family and work.’ Eugeniu G., 26, Moldova
Positive people Although job satisfaction and a sense of security make young people’s lives easier, their main source of happiness is ‘being around positive people’ and ‘enjoying human connections’, for instance family and friends.
No time for volunteering The big ‘loser’ at times of crisis seems to be society. Although many young people dream of leaving a positive footprint on our planet, in reality they spend little or no time volunteering. Social projects rank far behind spending time dealing with one’s future career and work, friends, family, as well as entertainment, parties, studies, exams and personal relationships.
Annika, GEF Team
GEF proudly presents its new website This year, GEF did its ‘spring cleaning’ in the virtual sphere: by creating a new, modern website! Since July 2012, our new site (www.generation-europe.eu) contains not only more information about our organisation’s history, structure and our wide range of partners, but also detailed information about our on-going projects and past success stories! A specialised Youth Centre collects and provides information for young Europeans, covering a range of topics: from a list of European youth organisations to news from the European policy-making on culture, youth or employment; from handson advice for your healthy lifestyle to information about your fundamental rights. If you like to participate in competitions and win great prices, you’ll also find opportunities displayed here. Teachers can benefit from a range of free Teaching Resources accessible via our Online Ordering System. Once you are signed up, which only takes you a couple of minutes, you can access all
our educational resources free of charge. Our library will grow bigger over time. So keep looking for news to benefit from our toolkits! www.generation-europe.eu
We Love Creative is a boutique design agency based in New Zealand that prides itself on adding value to brands through design, from brand creation to revitalization.
‘We’d like to say a big thank you to the team at GEF and we love the work you do! It has been a wonderful experience working with you on the site with great results.’ Ben Clayton (designer) & Steve Wake (developer) ben@welovecreative.co.nz − steve@welovecreative.co.nz
Focus on career development – have a look ! Don’t know which career to choose? Want to find a job or an internship? Then our new tool ‘Focus on...’ could help you! Choosing a profession or finding your first job can be challenging, and it’s not always obvious where to start. ‘Focus on Career Guidance’ contains many useful tips, including advice on how to identify the field that corresponds best to your strengths and interests and a step-by-step guide on how to land an internship. You can download it for free on our website: www.generation-europe.eu > Resources > Youth Centre The idea behind ‘Focus on...’ is to provide useful information and materials on subjects that are important to young people today, but that are not necessarily covered in the school curriculum. Tell us what other topics you would like to see covered in future editions: info@generation-europe.eu
Are you a teacher? ‘Focus on...’ is actually designed to be a new series of educational material aimed at young people aged 14-20. It should help you to address important issues that are outside of the school curriculum, together with your students. ‘Focus on Career Guidance’ is a pilot edition, which can be used by teachers as a class-room support or even by students on their own. Future editions of ‘Focus on...’ are expected to be shorter (2-4 pages) and feature a wide range of topics. The material is free and can be downloaded from our website: www.generation-europe.eu > Resources > Teaching Resources > Online library. Subscribe to our mailing list at: info@generation-europe.eu
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‘Generation Y’ calling! Across Europe, young people grow up to become tomorrow’s employees, future citizens, leaders, entrepreneurs and colleagues. Understanding the next generation − their aspirations and worries − allows companies and politicians to help them find their way into all these roles, and once they have recruited them, to retain talent. We wanted to know: What are the true dreams and concerns of the ‘Generation Y’? Here’s what they say... I would like to do something in my life that helps those around me or those to come. I am happy because I enjoy my work and am active in society − but I don’t have a full-time job and the future is so uncertain. Around me, things seem so bleak, with such high unemployment and a growing inequality both in Ireland and Europe. John M., 26, Ireland
The recession is the main concern of young people today. I wished I had the chance to work in the government or another institution and contribute to finding a solution for the financial crisis. Irene S., 24, United Kingdom
I hope to continue to live in peace and stability in my home country and in Europe. My main worry at this point is that I might not find a job and that I wouldn’t be able to have a family and live the life I imagine. Cornelia F., 24, Germany
I dream of a career in an international company that would contribute to a better society. Of course, I’d also like to start a family and find the right balance between my professional and family life. Maybe it’s a utopia. Hélène C., 20, Belgium
I would like to find a job through which I can make some contribution to society, while building my own life and being self-sustainable in order not to depend on my parents any more. Ana S., 22, Portugal
I dream of having a profession that I don’t perceive as a job, but as something that I’d naturally do anyways, but which is at the same time a source of income.” Fátima G., 29, Spain
My main concern is not to waste my potential and talent. In fact, I dream of becoming an influential European leader. Chiara P., 22, Italy
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I have the feeling that my generation is losing the ability to enjoy life because they feel overwhelmed with their daily challenges and responsibilities.” André L., 20, Austria
When I’m old, I want to be able to say that I lived each day to the fullest. And of course I would like to leave a mark on my country and on the world also. I hope to make this world a little better! I mostly worry about what my future will look like. But at this point, my biggest worry is if I’ll be successful in university. Anne-May K., 19, Estonia Young people must be seen as an integral part of the solution to crisis situation to ensure the long-term sustainability of the EU - young people are full of idealism, energy and do not carry the burdens of past generations. Youth are the Future!” Kamil M., 25, Poland
My personal dream in life is to be happy and experience as much as possible from the world around me. In my professional environment, such happiness comes from doing a meaningful job, which meets my skills, qualifications and expectations.” Judit B., 27, Hungary
I dream of living in a safer, cleaner and more just environment. Currently I am very concerned about the future of our society.” Eugeniu G., 26, Moldova
My personal dream in life is to have a successful career and a family and to carry a smile on my face every day. At the moment I am still trying to decide what I really want to do.” Natalija ., 23, Serbia
I have a good life, so my dream would actually be to become an astronaut and visit the galaxy ! I also wish to visit as many countries as I can around the world. Most young people in Kosovo simply dream of a better life where they can make at least a decent living.” Flamur V., 31, Kosovo
Apart from unemployment, the low citizens’ participation in decision-making is a strong concern of young people in my country.” Bahruz B., 25, Azerbaijan
I am dreaming of achieving my personal goals, which include traveling the world and meeting people, who will influence me and whom I can positively influence as well. But my concern is that time flies by too quickly and that I might not be able to implement all my plans.” Marios P., 27, Cyprus
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portrait Ralph Linde Director, Audi Academy Mr Linde, how many young people has Audi employed this year? Last year, Audi hired more than 1,200 experts. For this year we plan to recruit on a similar scale. We have just achieved another double victory at the renowned employer rankings of Trendence and Universum: for the third time in a row, graduates of engineering and economics selected us as the most attractive employer in Germany. Amongst computer scientists and natural scientists, Audi is very popular as well. You have just compiled a large study amongst your youngest employees to better understand their way of thinking. Where did this idea come from? At Audi, we have been looking intensively at the Generation "Y" for several years. Meanwhile, there is a wider public debate about this generation, and more and more studies on the subject appear. We wanted to see ourselves what it is about these statements from literature − and have consulted our own employees about it. Another trigger was of course the increasing use of new media, also at Audi − the younger generation in particular has a special affinity for social media, smartphones, etc. Did you notice a certain gap between the generations? There is no gap at all, on the contrary, we have found that the wishes and desires of Generation X and the baby boomers are quite similar to that of Generation Y − for example, they all want to have more feedback on the quality of their work. The young people simply request this feedback with a lot more confidence. This is due to a change in the parenting style, as the generations’ barometer of the Allensbach Institute shows: During their childhood, the Millennials were allowed to codecide much more at home than any generation before them. Therefore, they naturally demand to be able to contribute their own ideas at work, too.
‘A high hierarchical position alone is no longer enough to enjoy authority − the Millennials expect a lot of expertise from an executive.’
If that is so, do young people still accept assignments and orders from their managers? Yes, of course − but you have to explain decisions to them much more than to previous generations. They question the reasonability of a decision. A high hierarchical position alone is no longer enough to enjoy authority − the Millennials expect a lot of expertise from an executive. This can also be seen on the internet: The person who contributes the most information and value has the most "followers".
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How can communication between the generations in the company be improved?
Many young people long for personal fulfillment, but doesn’t this happen at the expense of the company?
Communication between the generations is generally good. I observe all the time supervisors adapting to the needs of the young people and showing a lot of understanding. But we are working on taking the changing communication needs more into account − which, by the way, not only affect the Generation Y: Older employees, too, welcome opportunities to exchange ideas and opinions within the company through forums or wikis.
On the contrary: If employees can achieve their goals in an appropriate position that corresponds to their skills and interests, the company will also benefit − because motivation and commitment are the basis for high performance. The company needs to create an appropriate environment conducive to innovation and to ensure that the right people are employed at the right place. Young people are happy if they can work with a lot of responsibility on exciting tasks − and of course if the "conditions", such as the remuneration, are alright.
Does this affect the daily routine at the workplace of the future? Our everyday work changes due to the use of new media; this is not a matter of generations. We will be even more networked, flexible and location independent. Tasks will be distributed with even more responsibility, and we will work more than today in teams that organise themselves.
The Millennials no longer want to choose between children and career − they want both, and we will have to adapt to that. Lifelong learning will be increasingly common − for the Generation Y, this is already the case. For them it is completely normal to continually develop and qualify. At Audi and the entire Volkswagen Group, we foster, for example, the Qualification within the vocational families: this means training and development takes place continuously throughout the entire professional career, concretely and on-the-job. Young people wish to find a good work-life balance... I do not like this strict division into life and work. In the end, it is the company’s objective to make work worth living. This also includes helping the employees to reconcile work and private life. The Millennials no longer want to choose between children and career − they want both, and we will have to adapt to that. Audi has long been offering a variety of flexible working time solutions, from part-time to sabbaticals. In addition to pre-reserved places in local day care centers for children of our employees, the company offers holiday care and, since September this year, even flexible short-term care: Here, the children of Audi employees are well taken care of when unexpected needs arise, for instance during a business trip or if the nursery is closed. For me, the balance between work and private life also means that we help employees to stay healthy: Our voluntary health checkup can be taken during working hours.
What career do young employees aspire to today? This result has really surprised us: A management career is no longer what the Millennials aspire to at all costs. They increasingly consider a professional career equally as attractive. Of course, young people also want to develop and be paid well − which is also possible working as an expert. For us this means that we are on the right track: Audi has been offering for several years either a managerial or a professional career. So today it is already possible for top professionals to get into a senior position without managerial responsibility. It has also shown us that we must continue to enhance this professional career track. This sounds like a lot of food for thought� What conclusions do you draw from the results of this study and what measures will you take first? A first concrete impact of the study is that we will be using social media and innovative training tools more than before in order to respond to the stronger need for exchange of young people. Otherwise, the study has confirmed that we are doing a good job. Because Generation Y is by no means ‘exotic’. They, too, determine the attractiveness of an employer by interesting work, a secure job, a good working environment, due remuneration, personal development opportunities and, not least, the product and company image. We will continuously work to improve all these factors, because the Millennials demand this with more confidence than ever − and will leave a company much faster if this does not meet their expectations. Thank you very much for the interview.
Eco-marathons foster future leaders in innovation How far can you make your car travel on as little fuel as possible? This is the challenge set by Shell to students from around the world in its annual EcoMarathons. The 2012 European edition, held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, attracted over 3,000 students from across Europe to race in the energy-efficient vehicles they had designed and built themselves. The event showcased the talent and creativity of future engineers of Europe, as well as their capacity to provide innovative solutions to future energy challenges.
‘Imagine driving from the North Cape of Norway to the toe of Italy … with only 1 litre of fuel! In 2010, the team of students from Polytech Nantes in France set a record of 4.896 km with a fuel cell powered car.’
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What ? Students participate in teams representing their high school or university. Taking charge of the whole project from the beginning to end, they are responsible for marketing and communication as well as designing, building and driving their vehicles. The winners − in various categories − are the teams that go the furthest distance using the least amount of energy. Who ? Students from universities and technical institutions from across the world can participate in the EcoMarathons, which are also held in the Americas and Asia. In this year’s European edition, over 200 teams from 24 countries participated. The events are also attended by business leaders and academics, who gather to discuss the future of energy. How come ? Dating back to a friendly bet between scientists in Illinois in 1939, the competition has now become an annual event in Europe, Asia and the Americas. In 1985, Shell held its first Eco-Marathon in France, to inspire students to explore fuel efficiency and to foster the debate around smarter mobility. Its success led to the 2007 and 2010 launches in the Americas and Asia respectively. This year’s event in Rotterdam was the first to be held in an urban environment, creating new
This project enabled me to discover the practical aspects of what I had studied in class. Through working as a team and preparing for a competition, I learned how important it is to do a job well − both on human and technical levels. Overall, it was a great learning experience in every way. Guillaume Biset, 21, (www.teamecomotion.com), Haute Ecole de la Province de Liège
challenges for the participants whose vehicles needed to be specially adapted to driving on a street circuit (paying particular attention to details such as the breaks, sharp turns and acceleration!).
Want to participate in 2013? Registration opened on 27 September 2012 and teams need to complete their registration by 31 October. Find registration form and more info on: www.shell.com/ ecomarathon/europe
© Markie Knopflie
GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
A DAY IN ThE LIFE OF... A hEADhUNTER
GEF met with Jesper Kleingeld, Research analyst at Russell Reynolds Associates Jesper, could you briefly describe your job and what you do on a daily basis? I work as a Researcher for Russell Reynolds Associates, a leading international executive search firm with over 40 offices worldwide. I identify, approach and pre-qualify potential candidates, mainly for executive positions in EU governmental affairs. On a daily basis, I help define the search strategy, perform desk research to identify potential candidates and gather relevant business information, and approach potential candidates to check whether they match the requirements of the ideal candidate profile. What kind of skills are employers looking for in candidates? At the executive level experience is very important because it shows that a person has achieved results. This means that they grasp both the details and the key business drivers in an industry and where most value can be obtained. It is also proof that they have a consistent track record of accomplishment. Besides experience other skills are also very important. Many of our clients prefer
people who are strong team managers, have international experience and can work in complex organizations. What impresses you most about a candidate? I am impressed when a person can present him or herself clearly, confidently and concisely. It is also a good sign if they ask questions and are pro-active in the conversation. A strong motivation is of course always important as well. What immediately puts you off a candidate? Apart from obvious things like spelling mistakes on a CV, being late for an appointment or generally poor presentation, it is a not a good sign if a candidate does not seem enthusiastic about the job or interested in the company. What advice would you give for a job interview? Be prepared and do your research so that you can show interest in the company by asking good questions. It is also important to clearly express
your motivation for the position and the company. You should always be prepared to answer the question ‘why are you the perfect candidate for the job’ ?” What general advice would you give to a young person looking for a job? If you don’t know what you want to do or what sector you are interested in then choose a few companies that you like and get in touch with them and try to speak to someone who can explain to you what they do. This would give you a better idea of jobs that are available but also help you make a contact in the company. Simply sending out blind applications without any specific motivations will not make a good impression. Also, If you’re unemployed and looking for a job − sign up for a language course or do volunteer work. It would give you something to add to your CV but also shows the employer that you are pro-active. Transferable skills, such as language skills, are important as they make you more flexible in the fast changing job market. Thank you.
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eu in focus Youth unemployment in Europe − what’s the answer? Why young people should not give up The ‘lost generation’? Generation ‘U’ (for Unemployed)? Generation ‘NEET’ (an acronym for Not in Education, Employment or Training)? The ‘jobless generation’? These are just some of the labels being used for today’s struggling youth. Not exactly encouraging, is it? Young people have been undoubtedly one of the groups most affected by the global economic crisis and it seems that the news just keeps on getting worse. Constant updates of growing youth unemployment figures paint a gloomy future for young people around Europe, and despite the issue attracting the attention of policy makers − nobody seems to have the answer. Nevertheless, at least politicians and policy makers are finally recognizing the problem and many European countries have started to implement their own youth plans. It’s true that there are huge differences between the ‘example
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setters’ such as Germany, Austria and the Netherlands with relatively low youth unemployment (only 8-9%) and the crisis countries such as Greece and Spain with soaring rates (over 50%) but young people in all countries face similar problems and barriers. Youth unemployment is a Europe-wide problem and cannot be fixed by any country alone.
that. The world is changing and young people have to find ways to meet these new challenges. The same as older generations have had to adapt to new technologies, young people have to adapt to the changing labour market and they must accept that at times of economic crisis − their future is in their hands and they need to help create solutions too.
The crisis has not only brought austerity but also a lot of uncertainty to Europe. This in turn has meant job cuts, funding cuts and a rise in low paid, temporary or contractual work, often replacing full-time permanent jobs and thus creating the new phenomenon of ‘inwork poverty’ or people juggling various jobs to make ends meet. Young people are particularly vulnerable to falling into this cycle.
Here are some possible solutions to some of the common problems facing young Europeans:
However, young people must not let themselves be written off just like
− Lack of education or training In the majority of European countries, public education is either free or low cost. Although university might not be for everyone it is worth looking into further education for training as there are many vocational courses which can provide you with more marketable skills and widen your choice of jobs.
- Lack of work experience rapidly developing and need qualified Unfortunately the vicious cycle of ‘no workers so it’s worth looking into experience − no job’ has intensified alternatives in other sectors. further and companies are reluctant to take on fresh graduates. However, many companies are now offering internships which can provide experience and also lead to a permanent job. Even volunteering © ZoofyTheJi can provide you with new skills. - No opportunities in my city/country Today, it is important to be flexible, which could mean considering looking for jobs in another city or even country. Learning foreign languages is also becoming increasingly important with a mobile workforce and basic English is now almost a pre-requisite for a good job. - No vacancies for jobs in my field There is an emerging ‘Jobs-Skills Gap’ which means that vacancies are not being filled because the right skills are not being provided to young people. There are certain sectors which are
what companies and governments should try to harness and support, as well as the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation − which is what Europe needs the most in order to continue to advance in today’s fastchanging and competitive global economy. So how about improving the image of today’s youth and calling it the ‘iGeneration’ (focus on information and independence) or ‘Generation A’ (for adaptability and a new start). After all, young people are fighting for their future and they should be supported in their struggle for a better future.
There are many other issues facing the current generation of young people, who will have to struggle to search for opportunities or even create opportunities for themselves but this is also a skill − adaptability. The ability to adapt to the changing world and using what young people know best − the internet, modern technology, online networks and communities and the ability to spread new ideas and concepts, is becoming increasingly important. Young people today are more technologically advanced, connected and well educated than any other previous generation and this is
Natalia Marczewska, GEF Team http://ec.europa.eu/social/main. jsp?catId=993 http://we-mean-business.europa. eu/ http://ec.europa.eu/education/ erasmus-for-all/index_en.htm http://ec.europa.eu/ youthonthemove/
Vote? Why bother... © Hugama via stock.xchng
Why do so few young people vote in the European elections? What are the most relevant issues for young citizens? How should the 2014 European electoral campaign address young people to better involve them in the EU debates? These are just some of the questions that pushed the European Youth Forum (YFJ) to launch the ‘League of Young Voters’ project. The ‘League of Young Voters’ (LYV) aims to enhance youth participation in the 2014 European Parliament elections by raising awareness among young Europeans, informing them what is at stake for them in the elections and providing balanced information about the positioning of the different
and encouraging political parties and candidates to directly target young people in their campaigns and engage in a dialogue and debate with them. LYV wants to become the hub for young people and the European Elections 2014 so look out for their campaigns in the future!
Vote at 16
political parties. It will also aim at informing political parties what young people’s concerns are so that they can be included in their election campaigns
The European Youth Forum (YFJ) has also recently launched a new project, campaigning for the European voting age to be lowered from 18 to 16 years so that more young people can participate in the democratic processes shaping their futures and the future of Europe. Check it out: www.voteat16.eu
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最近欧米では、苦しい経済環境と上昇する失業率 への対処として、これからの若者達にとって最 も役立つスキルとは何かを考えることが大きな 課題となっている。様々な考えの中で、グロー バル化に伴う諸課題に対応できる柔軟な考え方 （adaptability）をもつことが最も大切であるとい う声が上がっている。イギリスと日本の間で育っ た私は、そういった思考が欧米で広まっている一 方で、日本ではどのように受け止められるかを考 えてみたいと思う。
チームワーク vs. 個人主義 日本社会に関してまず知っておくべきことがあ る。それは、仕事であろうとプライベートであろ うと、個人の問題よりまず集団（会社、家族、 社会）のことを考えるべきだととらえられている ことだ。また、能力主義社会のアメリカなどとは 違って、自分の長所をアピールすることは日本で はあまりよく思われないこと。褒め言葉をもらっ た時の反応も、イギリス人などからすれば日本人 はとても謙虚にみえる。なぜなら、単純に「あり がとう」と答えるのではなく、まずはほめた相手 の言葉を否定することが多いからだ。例えば、 Aが「試験でとてもいい結果だったそうですね。 おめでとうございます。」と言うと、Bは「いえ いえ、まだまだですよ。」などと答えるのが大抵 のパターンだ。仕事のうえでも、個人のキャリア はもちろん大事だが、会社のためを一番に考える ことが求められている。個人より他人や会社のこ とを考えるのは悪いことではない。特に仕事の面 では、チームワークを重視して信頼関係を育む効 果があるともいえる。しかし、つねに謙虚で自分 の能力を認めずいるのはその人にとっても会社に とっても不利なのではないか。グローバルにな ってゆく近代社会の中、そして世界中で若者が adaptabilityを身につけてきている今、自分の長所 や意見を強くアピールできないことは、日本人を 不利な立場におくことになるのではないか。
キャリアウーマン 日本ではキャリアウーマンという言葉を耳にする
日 本 の グ ロ
日本の女性は結婚後や出産後は主婦になることが 多い。そのため、キャリア重視の女性は女性らし くないと思われたり、結婚相手がなかなか見つか らないこともある。女性の能力が世界中で認めら れていく中、日本人もその流れについていかね ば、就業の可能性を活かしきれないままになって しまうだろう。
昇進 路の柔軟度 先進国の中で日本の独特な点はもうひとつある。
バ ル 化 に は 柔 軟 性 が 必 須
それは、一般的なキャリアの昇進経路だ。まず、
？
していけるような
が、キャリアを重視する特殊な女性として使われ ることが多い。欧米ではもちろん、ほとんど聞か ない。それだけでも日本で働く女性たちの立場 が分かる。欧米では今、法律で様々な企業の執行委員会にい る女性の数を増やそうという発想が討論されているところだ が、日本ではそのような運動が起こるまではほど遠く感じら れる。現代ではキャリアを進める女性も増えてきたが、両親
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が働くことが普通なイギリスやアメリカと比べ、
日本の就職活動は欧米の感覚とはかなり違ってい て、入社の時期も ４月にほぼ限られているため求 職者にとっては窮屈な採用方法である。また上記 のように、日本の仕事に関す考え方は個人の成長 というより会社の発展が重視されている。もちろ ん欧米の企業も同様なのだが、一般的には個人の 問題は会社の問題の上にたつと認められている。 したがって、数年経って部や専門を変えたいと思 った時、イギリスの会社では個人の選択肢を尊重 してくれることが多いが、上下関係が厳しい日本 の企業では、若手の間はなかなか自分の思ったよ うに昇進できなかったり、上司を気にして自分の 可能性を発揮できなかったりすることがあると思 われる。
これからの行方 欧米に長く住んでいる私の意見は片寄っているか もしれないが、日本でも変化を求めている人が多 くいるようだ。2011年以来ノルマになったクー ルビズなど、少しずつだが変化は起こっている。 グローバルになりつつある世界で日本の企業が取 り残されないためにも、このように新しい考え方 も受け入れていくべきだ。特に若い世代が柔軟性 と創造力を身につけるためには、もっと自由で 個人個人が自分の可 能性を見つめて活か 環境を作ることに励 まなければならない だろう。
Laura Sae Miyake Mark, GEF Team Read the article in English on www.generation-europe.eu/media-centre/magazines
KEY FIGURE
53% How many languages do you speak? A recent Eurobarometer opinion poll reveals that 53% of Europeans use foreign languages at work and 45% think they got a better job in their own country thanks to their foreign language skills. 98% say that mastering languages will be good for the future of their children. However, a separate European Commission study highlights that there is a gap between aspirations and reality when it comes to foreign language skills in practice: Only 42% of teenage pupils in 14 European countries are competent in their first foreign language and just 25% in their second. A significant number, 14% in the case of the first foreign language and 20% in the second, do not achieve even a level of ‘basic user’. Does this make you think you should perhaps have taken your French homework more seriously? It’s not too late! If you are bored of your school books, try using the internet and reading about a topic you really like, in the language you would like to master. This can be fun!
“how dare they write off a whole continent!”
QUOTE
Moray MacLennan, Global CEO of M&C Saatchi and President of EACA
A new initiative was announced in Brussels two weeks ago. It was born out of the relentless negative commentary on Europe lagging behind strong� continents such as Asia, America or Africa, who are said to stand a better chance than Europe in facing the future. The European Association of Communication Agencies (EACA) − determined to shift this negative mind-set − intends to speak for young people when shouting out: ‘This is not my future!’ In March 2013, EACA will launch a major pan-European campaign aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs. ‘We believe in the power of communication’ said MacLennan − but the campaign goes even further and is to include an online platform in each of the initial target countries (Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the UK), providing concrete support for young start-ups. Speaking at a press conference in Brussels on 19 September, MacLennan continued, ‘We are focusing on start-up businesses because businesses with less than 10 employees are a key part in the European economy, delivering over 20% of gross value last year.’ Whether or not an exclusive focus on entrepreneurs can bring about the aspired mind shift in Europe remains to be seen. Young employees, too, are numerous and could also play a role in enhancing Europe’s economy. One thing is very positive, though: that this campaign is all about bringing confidence back to the European continent and empowering young people to shape their own future. More information:
www.thisismyfuture.eu
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competitions corner CL!CK About It What ? A photo competition.
For whom? Professional and amateur
CL!CK is a photo competition about the
photographers.
changing world, which aims to create a mosaic of images from all corners
Until when? 29 October 2012.
of the globe to showcase how local
Prizes: Two overall winners (one for
communities are and people are striving
professional and one for amateur)
to survive in the ever-changing society.
will be selected to go on a theme-
The theme is “Crises & Disasters”, so
related reporting trip organised by the
you can submit photos that capturing natural disasters, political uprisings,
European Journalism Centre.
conflicts, financial crisis, development
Organised by: European Journalism
crisis, urban life and climate change.
Centre
More info: http://new.clickaboutit.net
It’s About Ability! – Calling youth filmmakers What? A video competition
Until when? 15 December 2012.
UNICEF invites you to produce a one
Prizes: The winner will receive a SONY HDV Flipcam.
minute video reflecting your perspective on disabilities. The competition theme
All finalists’ videos will be displayed on the main UNICEF website, and the winning video will be used in the 2013 State of the World’s Children launch materials, made available for broadcast around the world, and distributed through online channels.
is ’It’s About Ability!’ and takes a positive approach to disability. Children with disabilities are often shown neglected, weak or in need of pity. But those images only perpetuate negative beliefs, which affect the way we behave. Instead, UNICEF is
to comedy, fiction or documentary,
looking for perspectives that can be
animation or live-action.
empowering, constructive and eyeopening in their diversity. The short
For whom? Young people below 25
films can be anything from drama
years of age.
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Organised by: UNICEF More info: http://www.unicef.org/ videoaudio/video_videocontest.htm