A major new employment strategy has been unveiled that aims to put in place measures for sustainable growth and new jobs in the European Union (EU).

Launched by the vice-president of the European Commission responsible for inter-institutional relations and administration, the Commission Work Programme 2010 covers issues such as the delivery of the Europe 2020 goals, improving the financial system in the wake of the crisis and implementing the EU's Digital Agenda.

Maros Sefcovic claimed: "The coming years will be crucial in casting the right foundation for the Europe of future generations."

Speaking in Brussels to the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), he explained the strategy focuses on sustainability and climate change issues, as well as youth employment, supporting small businesses and improving social inclusion.

A series of 34 strategic initiatives have been drawn up in order to deliver the plans.

EU approaches to raising the retirement age were recently challenged by the results of a new poll from Aon Consulting, which suggested one in three workers in Europe would be prepared to have less money in old age in order to finish working earlier.