The topic of young people becoming independent in the Balkans sparks various opinions and debates. The main reasons for delaying leaving the parental home are economic pressures, an unstable labor market, and high housing costs. Many young people live with their parents even into their thirties, believing it takes time to stand on their own feet and find a secure job. A survey conducted in Zagreb showed divided opinions on the ideal age for independence, ranging from 18 to 35 years, with some believing children should never leave. Discussions on social media highlight a vicious cycle where young people struggle to become independent due to financial and social circumstances, while parents remain alone and care for the elderly. There are also differing views on parental expectations and the reality of young people’s lives today, with nostalgia for past times when generations lived together but also recognition that interests and lifestyles are now different. Most respondents and commentators agree that the best time to become independent is between the late teens and late twenties, usually after finishing education and acquiring the basics for an independent life.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources tend to emphasize the economic challenges young people face in becoming independent, such as unemployment, low wages, and high housing costs. They highlight the structural issues in the labor market and advocate for social support systems to help youth transition to independence.
Center: Center-leaning sources present a balanced view, acknowledging both the economic difficulties and cultural factors influencing young people’s delayed independence. They focus on personal readiness, education completion, and societal expectations as key factors in determining the right time to leave the parental home.
Right: Right-leaning sources often stress personal responsibility and the importance of young people striving for independence as soon as possible. They may emphasize traditional values of self-reliance and criticize prolonged dependence on parents, while acknowledging economic realities but encouraging individual effort.