Ahead of the External Bureau meeting of the European Committee of the Regions in Szczecin, Poland, students at the University of Szczecin engaged in a dynamic local debate with Olgierd Geblewicz (PL/EPP), President of the West Pomerania Region and Kata Tüttő (HU/PES), President of the European Committee of the Regions.
The conversation focused on the pressing topic of “European freedoms for young people entering the labour market,” combining personal reflections with policy insights.
President Geblewicz shared his own experience as a young graduate navigating a challenging labour market: “I think the fear was the same, although today its causes are certainly different,” he remarked. “Back then, there was massive unemployment, and many of my peers left the country in search of a better start abroad. Then, as now, young people get a cold shower when taking on their first job. They are full of enthusiasm to change the world but end up doing tasks that are far from spectacular. Out of that frustration, after finishing my law degree, I decided to pursue further studies—this time in economics. But law provides a great foundation for working in many fields, from business to administration or politics.”
He encouraged the students to remain resilient and hopeful: “I encourage you to stay optimistic, even in those moments when you’re facing difficulties. They can be a source of motivation. I also want to say that we want to help you. It is our duty—not only as parents but also as politicians—to support young people.”
The debate also addressed the wider demographic challenges facing Europe. CoR President Kata Tüttő highlighted the importance of reversing depopulation trends in European cities: “Our cities are becoming depopulated, so it is very important for young people to return to their hometowns. After all, we are talking about places with centuries of history, and I want that history to continue.”
President Geblewicz added that transparent and rules-based legal migration systems could help address demographic and labour market gaps across Europe: “Legal migration, a system based on transparent rules, may be the solution for European countries—one that will help attract young, skilled individuals who can be assured of building a good, stable life in a new place.”
This dialogue between local leaders and young citizens offered a timely and hopeful perspective ahead of the Committee's External Bureau meeting—underlining the role of local and regional authorities in shaping a Europe that works for the next generation.