More should be done by countries around the world to focus on job creation and employment growth.

This is the assertion made in a new report from the International Labour Organization (ILO), which has called on the Group of 20 (G20) nations to ensure more people are in work through the use of "productive employment and job-intensive growth policies".

G20 leaders are due to hold a meeting in Seoul and the ILO has urged politicians to concentrate on increasing opportunities for work at the summit on November 11th and 12th.

Data from the body shows that joblessness rose in half of the G20 countries during 2010 in comparison with 2009 and fell in eight, remaining stable in two, while most emerging economies have witnessed growth in jobs during the year.

In addition, director of the ILO Department of Statistics Rafael Diez de Medina highlighted the declines in hours worked and participation rates in the labor force in many high income nations, which he said can "have a clear impact on social cohesion".

Founded in 1919, the ILO is responsible for improving opportunities for people around the world to work in decent and productive jobs, with consideration for equity, dignity and freedom.

Posted by Lee Thrace