By Elena Martinez Zollo
Published: May 26, 2025 | Updated: 3:45 PM CEST

BRUSSELS — The European Union has launched an initiative to standardize generational terminology, such as Baby Boomers and Generation Z, to reduce confusion in global research, policy-making, and cultural discussions. Announced by the European Commission on Monday, the Generational Terminology Working Group (GTWG) will focus on creating consistent definitions and year ranges for generational cohorts, addressing variations that differ across countries and institutions.

A Consistent Approach to Generational Labels

The GTWG, part of the EU’s cultural and research harmonization efforts, aims to establish clear year spans for generations like Baby Boomers (1946–1964), Generation Z (1997–2012), and emerging groups such as Generation Alpha (2013–2025). The group will work with international researchers, including those from the U.S.-based Pew Research Center and Australia’s McCrindle Research, to propose a shared framework. The proposed spans are based on a 16-year cycle for recent generations, reflecting major social and technological shifts. For example:

Baby Boomers (1946–1964): Defined by the post-World War II baby boom.
Generation Z (1997–2012): Shaped by the rise of digital technology and social media.
Generation Alpha (2013–2025): The first generation fully born in the 21st century, influenced by advanced technology and global connectivity.

Why Standardize Generational Terms?

Generational labels help researchers and policymakers understand trends in areas like education, employment, and consumer behavior. However, differing definitions create challenges. For instance, while Pew Research defines Generation Z as 1997–2012, some sources extend it to 2015, and regional variations in Asia or Africa tie generations to local events. “Consistent terminology would make cross-country studies and policies more effective,” said EU Commissioner for Cultural Affairs, Sofia Albrecht. “We’re aiming for clarity, not control.”

The GTWG will collaborate with global partners to develop guidelines, drawing on the EU’s experience with initiatives like the NextGenerationEU recovery plan, which emphasized cross-border cooperation. The group plans to publish its recommendations by mid-2027, following consultations with demographers, sociologists, and public stakeholders.

How Will It Work?

The GTWG will propose generational names and year ranges based on historical and cultural milestones. For example, the term “Generation Alpha” reflects the start of a new naming cycle, while “Baby Boomers” is tied to a specific demographic event. The group will avoid overly commercial or region-specific terms, such as “Zoomers,” to ensure broad applicability. A public database will track adoption of the guidelines, similar to transparency tools used in EU agricultural policy, to encourage voluntary compliance by media, researchers, and governments.

Challenges and Perspectives

While the initiative has been welcomed by some researchers, others question its practicality. “Generational terms often emerge organically, shaped by local culture,” said Dr. P. H. Cohen, a sociologist at the University of Maryland. “A universal system might struggle to account for those differences.” In the U.S., where terms like “OK, Boomer” have cultural weight, there may be resistance to adopting EU-led definitions. Social media reactions on platforms like X show a mix of support and skepticism, with one user noting, “Standardizing generations sounds useful, but it’s not like everyone will agree.”

Within the EU, some member states, such as Hungary, have raised concerns about the initiative’s scope, arguing it could encroach on national cultural priorities. However, the GTWG emphasizes that its guidelines are voluntary and meant to foster collaboration, not enforce compliance.

Looking Ahead

The GTWG will begin its work in January 2026, with a focus on building consensus among global stakeholders. By promoting clear, shared definitions, the EU hopes to enhance cross-border research and policy efforts, much like its work in data protection with GDPR. Whether the world adopts these standards remains to be seen, but the initiative reflects the EU’s commitment to addressing global challenges through cooperation and clarity.

By leveraging its experience with initiatives like NextGenerationEU, which allocated €750 billion for post-COVID recovery, the EU aims to position itself as a cultural arbiter. Success depends on whether the commission can balance standardization with respect for diverse cultural contexts.
For now, the GGTC is set to begin operations in January 2026, with initial guidelines expected by mid-2027. As the world grapples with rapid demographic and technological shifts, the EU’s bid to define the next generation—literally and figuratively—could reshape how we understand our place in history.