Michael Haan discusses economic and social situation facing Millennials

May 30, 2016

Michael Haan, Professor in the Department of Sociology and Canada Research Chair in Migration and Ethnic Relations was part of a panel on The Agenda on TVO, "Measuring Generation Millennial", speaking on the economic and social situation facing millennials. 

During the discussion, Haan said that many millennials delay entry into the labour market when the labour market is not receptive. If there are not a lot of new opportunities for young people, they continue to upgrade themselves without giving the impression they've given up.

Speaking about living situations, Haan points out that while Baby Boomers were born into an era of unparalleled economic growth and opportunities in the labour market, millennials are facing into very different situations as they enter the labour market.  He predicts that millennials have entered the workforce later, and will likely stay in the workforce beyond the traditional retirement age. 

He said every generation blazes its own trail, and society needs to embrace the unique aspects of each generation to capitalize on their strengths. 

Included in the panel were National Post columnist Robyn Urback, Nancy Worth from GenY at Home, and Shannon Lee Simmons of the New School of Finance.