The European Parliament has called upon member states to do more to tackle the high rate of joblessness among young people.

According to a new resolution adopted by the body, more people in this age bracket should be involved in determining the policies that will affect them.

It urges countries to "provide support for local youth parliaments and councils" and increase the accessibility of cultural institutions across the European Union (EU).

With regards to mobility, it advocates improving the recognition of qualifications, while a recommendation is made to address unemployment, as "an insecure job situation" could cause people to delay having a family.

Members of the European Parliament also outlined plans to enhance the lives of young people with special needs, promote non-formal education, boost youth mobility and encourage more volunteering.

The EU Youth in Action program has sponsored a series of projects in member states that have helped to boost employment opportunities and the chances of participants finding work, a recent poll found.

Posted by Alex Donnell