Loneliness is increasingly becoming a pressing issue in Europe, particularly among young people and men, according to the OECD’s latest Social Connections and Loneliness report. The report highlights that unemployed individuals and those with low incomes are also more likely to experience loneliness.
In 21 European OECD countries, daily face-to-face interactions with friends and family have consistently declined between 2006 and 2022, while remote contact has increased following the COVID pandemic. This trend is concerning, as spending little time interacting with others and feeling lonely are associated with significant health risks, including up to 871,000 global deaths annually.
The Loneliness Epidemic: Understanding the Causes
The OECD report indicates that the decline in face-to-face interactions is a major contributor to the rise in loneliness. In 2022, the share of people reporting that they felt lonely “most of the time” or “all of the time” over the past four weeks was highest in France and Lithuania, at 11% and 9%, respectively. The report also notes that young men are particularly affected, with worsening social connections outcomes not yet well understood.
Research suggests that the impact of digital technology on feelings of loneliness and disconnection is complex. While some studies have found mixed results, there is consensus that how digital tools are used, as well as the types of online behaviors, matter. For instance, excessive mobile phone use can harm social interactions, particularly among young people.
Tackling Loneliness: European Initiatives
In response to the growing concern around loneliness, several European countries have introduced national strategies to target the issue. For example, Finland’s National Youth Work and Youth Policy Programme includes initiatives to help young people find jobs, financial counseling, and art therapy, sports, and community service. Other countries, such as Belgium, Finland, France, Greece, and Hungary, have limited or banned phones in schools to encourage offline connections rather than online contact among young people.
The European Commission and the World Health Organization’s Commission on Social Connection have also identified social isolation and loneliness as public health priorities. In May 2025, the World Health Assembly approved a resolution identifying social connection as an essential issue for the global health agenda. For more information on the global health implications of loneliness, visit the World Health Organization’s fact sheet on social isolation and loneliness.
Addressing the Root Causes
To effectively address loneliness, it is essential to understand its root causes. The OECD report highlights that low income and unemployment are significant risk factors for loneliness. Additionally, the decline in face-to-face interactions and the rise of remote contact have contributed to the issue.
As Europe continues to grapple with the loneliness epidemic, it is crucial that policymakers and stakeholders work together to develop effective solutions. By understanding the causes of loneliness and implementing targeted initiatives, it is possible to mitigate its effects and promote healthier social connections. For further reading on the topic, the OECD’s report on Social Connections and Loneliness provides in-depth analysis and recommendations.
As the issue of loneliness continues to unfold, it is essential to monitor the effectiveness of current initiatives and be prepared to adapt strategies as needed. By working together, European countries can develop a comprehensive approach to addressing loneliness and promoting social connection.
