In contemporary society, the traditional notion of social classes has evolved to give way to new concepts and realities. One of the most worrying and emerging trends is the consolidation of what is known as the "precariat", a new social class that encompasses young people who find themselves in a situation of job, economic and social precariousness that places them in a position of vulnerability and modern slavery.
Origin and Characteristics of the Precariat
The term "precariat" was coined by the British sociologist Guy Standing in his book "The Precariat: The New Dangerous Class" published in 2011. This concept refers to a group of people who, despite being formally employed, live in constant labor instability, with temporary, poorly paid jobs. , without social security and without future prospects. Unlike the traditional working class, the precariat does not have the protection of strong unions or stable labor contracts.
Characteristics of the Precariat:
- Lack of job stability.
- Low salaries and precarious working conditions.
- Social insecurity and lack of labor protection.
- Limited future prospects.
- Difficulty in access decent housing and basic services.
These precarious living conditions and constant uncertainty generate a feeling of vulnerability and helplessness in the individuals who are part of this new social class. The precariat is characterized by its high labor mobility, the diversity of the jobs they perform and the lack of cohesion as a social group, which makes it difficult to organize and defend their rights.
The Youth Precariat: Slavery Modern
Although the precariat affects people of all ages, it is in youth where this reality manifests itself most acutely and worryingly. Young people face a highly competitive labor market, where the lack of experience and the oversupply of labor contribute to the precariousness of available jobs. Many young people are forced to accept poorly paid, temporary jobs without job guarantees in order to access the labor market.
Factors that Contribute to the Youth Precariat:
- Education increasingly more expensive and disconnected from the needs of the labor market.
- Increase in youth unemployment and difficulty in accessing the first job.
- Growth of the informal economy and part-time jobs.
- Labor exploitation and violation of labor rights in sectors such as tourism, hospitality and commerce.
The job insecurity and economic instability faced by workers young people can have serious consequences on their emotional and psychological well-being. The lack of job security, the pressure to remain active in a competitive market and the feeling of being trapped in dead-end jobs can generate high levels of anxiety, stress and depression in this vulnerable population.
Impact in the Mental Health of Young People
Job insecurity and economic insecurity are determining factors in the mental health of young people. Studies have shown that those in precarious jobs are at higher risk of mental disorders such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. The lack of stability and the constant pressure to maintain employment can have a negative impact on young people's self-esteem and self-perception, contributing to the appearance of mental health problems.
Consequences of Job Precariousness in the Mental Health of Young People:
- High levels of stress and anxiety.
- Depression and feelings of hopelessness.
- Increased risk of suicide in extreme cases.
- Difficulties in interpersonal and social relationships.
- Problems of self-esteem and self-worth.
It is essential that pay attention to the mental health of precarious young people and develop strategies to support their emotional well-being. The creation of specific mental health programs for this population group, the promotion of healthy work environments and the strengthening of social protection systems are necessary measures to address this problem comprehensively.
The Fight for the Rights of the Precariat
Given the growing precariousness of working conditions and the violation of workers' rights, it is essential to promote social awareness and mobilization in defense of the rights of the precariat. Trade union organizations, social movements and activists have been denouncing labor exploitation, the lack of social protection and the instability of precarious work, demanding structural changes that guarantee decent and fair working conditions for all workers.
Strategies for Defense of the Rights of the Precariat:
- Strengthening of labor regulation and protection of labor rights.
- Promotion of fair wages and decent working conditions.
- Support for the unionization and organization of precarious workers.
- Implementation of public policies that promote job stability and social protection.
The fight for The rights of the precariat is a fight for social justice and equal opportunities for all. It is necessary to make visible the vulnerable situation of this new social class and promote actions that contribute to improving their living and working conditions. Only through the joint work of civil society, governments and companies will it be possible to build a more just and equitable future for all workers, especially for young people who are trapped in the modern slavery of the precariat.