As youth unemployment in Europe reaches 23.8%, join our panel of experts for help and career advice on Wednesday 3 July from 1pm to 3pm
European unemployment hit a record high in May this year, according to new research from the EU statistics office, Eurostat.
Young people are feeling the effects more than any other generation. While the overall unemployment rate across Europe was 12.1% in May 2013, the youth unemployment rate was almost double this, totalling 23.8%. 3.5 million people under the age of 25 were unemployed across Europe in May.
And it's not just the economy that suffers. There's a human story behind each of the statistics, and joblessness challenges the entire fabric of society. As Jon Henley observed in his investigation: "These are often young people with no pensions, no social security contributions, diminishing networks, limited opportunities for independence. High youth unemployment doesn't just mean social problems and productivity wasted; it means falling birthrates and intergenerational tension between parents and their thirtysomethings still living at home."
But it's not all doom and gloom. Many young people are getting innovative with their careers in the face of austerity. Kanella Anapoglou, a graphic designer from Athens who recently designed a pastry shop, explains: "The crisis has allowed us to be much more creative... Now that a lot of big companies have collapsed and no longer have the monopoly it's opened up a whole new space."
So if you're looking to beat the statistics and would like some advice about any aspect of jobhunting, join our live chat on Wednesday 3 July from 1pm to 3pm. We'll have experts from across Europe ready to share their help and insights into navigating your way around the tough jobs market. Topics up for discussion include:
• Considering your choices in a crowded market
• Jobseeking techniques
• CV and covering letter tips
• Interview help and advice
• Moving abroad to find work
The Q&A takes place in the comments section below this article. Taking part in our Q&As is easier than ever. You can create a free Guardian account, or log in using your Twitter or Facebook profiles. Alternatively, you can tweet us on @GuardianCareers or email your questions to Kate Hodge.
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