13 Aug 2010

UN says global youth unemployment now 81 million

6:15 am on 13 August 2010

A United Nations report says global youth unemployment has reached its highest level on record and is expected to increase throughout the year.

The International Labour Organisation says 81 million young people are unemployed worldwide, increasing the risk of social instability.

It warns of a lost generation of 15 - 24 year olds who have dropped out of the labour market because of the economic downturn.