4. Social Inclusion
Address
Fundacja Rozwoju Systemu Edukacji
Foundation for the Development of the Education System (FRSE)
National Agency for the Erasmus+ Programme
al. Jerozolimskie 142A
PL-02-305 Warszawa
Tel: +48 22 46 31 091
E-Mail: wawrzyniec.pater@frse.org.pl
mateusz.jezowski@coleurope.eu
Website
In Poland the main problems affecting young people that may contribute to social exclusion include challenges related to identity formation during adolescence, particularly in the context of financial instability, limited access to professional support, and a lack of meaningful opportunities to shape their personal as well as local or national identity. Additional concerns involve poor physical condition linked to low levels of physical activity, and the diverse needs of young people with disabilities, who differ in terms of type and degree of disability as well as levels of social, educational, and professional engagement. The mental health of the younger generation is also deteriorating, as reflected in rising rates of depression, eating disorders, and suicides among children and adolescents. This is accompanied by dysfunctional internet use, including addiction, attention disorders, aggressive behaviour, and substance dependence (nicotine, alcohol, and drugs). Although the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are not yet fully understood, they are likely to intensify existing mental health and wellbeing challenges. Furthermore, young people demonstrate low levels of cultural participation, including reduced involvement in extracurricular activities, declining book readership, limited interest in cultural institutions, and lower engagement in amateur artistic movements. Finally, many young people face a difficult situation in the labour market due to a lack of professional experience, low qualifications, insufficient key competences such as initiative, entrepreneurship, teamwork, and communication skills, as well as low job security and weakly developed social capital in potential workplaces.