In a statement on European Day observed on Thursday, the minister said the unemployment crisis of youth in different European countries was deepening, which she termed shocking.
She pointed out that about 60 per cent of the youth in Spain and Greece were jobless at the moment.
‘The main focus has for long been on the financial crisis in Europe. Now it is time to think about the unemployment situation,’ said Urpilainen, adding that such social crises should be resolved at the very beginning.
The minister said Europe should aim at ensuring 75 per cent employment rate among people of the age group ranging between 20 and 64 years.
She also said the percentage of students dropping out of school should not go beyond 10.