The ILO report says the labor market is especially difficult for young people. It says almost 74 million people between the ages of 15 and 24 are unemployed worldwide. That represents an unemployment rate of 12.6 percent.

The report says more and more young people who experience long-term unemployment stop looking for work. It says this prevents young people from gaining on-the-job experience.

Guy Ryder says the ILO has been warning about the risks of what it calls a “lost generation.” He has called on policy makers to support youth employment.

Mr. Ryder says all countries, especially developed ones, must provide more predictable policies. He says these policies must include measures to increase wages and support stronger consumption. And he says countries should enact reforms to strengthen the banking industry, so banks can support investment and provide credit.

While the I.L.O. believes there is reason to be concerned about the world economy, the International Monetary Fund expects the international economy to grow slowly this year. A new IMF report predicts that international growth will reach 3.5 percent in 2012. That would be three tenths of a percent better than the rate last year.