Jobs are the lifeblood for national economies and family budgets. The search for economic opportunity often drives people to move around the globe. The most educated and highly skilled workers are in demand, and immigration policies often reflect that priority. Less skilled would-be immigrants, however, are often subject to tighter restrictions – even in nations where native citizens refuse to take on harvesting, construction, cleaning or other difficult tasks. Advanced technology reduces the need for labor; employers also rely on outsourcing, contract workers and the internet for digital work, including tax preparation, X-ray analysis or graphic design. Nations fiercely compete for jobs while multinational corporations reduce labor costs to increase profits.

A Self-Inflicted Wound

US policies for high-skilled immigration fail to meet demands of the 21st century
Jacob F. Kirkegaard
July 1, 2008

An Uncertain Victory for China’s Workers

As employers debate the costs, the question remains whether employees will take advantage of the new labor law
Lyle Morris
June 24, 2008

Germany Deadlocked Over Immigration Policy

Foreign workers are needed to maintain prosperity, but many worry about diluting national identity
Dominic Sachsenmaier
August 22, 2003

Unpopular Globalization: Why So Many Are Opposed

Blaming globalization for workforce anxiety in the US and Europe is misguided
David Dapice
February 2, 2006

Knock, Knock…Who's There? Many Migrants!

Rising populations in the developing world and greying populations in the developed world are creating new pressures.
Joseph Chamie
August 5, 2003

IT Workers on the Move With Globalization

Emigration of technology workers from developing countries no longer seen as brain drain
Anthony P. D’Costa
April 9, 2008

How Can We Tackle Abuse in the Global Garment Industry?

Unions strive to increase minimum wage and improve working conditions
Alice Evans
November 24, 2016

China's Shrinking Workforce Affects Economic Transition, Expert Says

Size of China’s workforce declines for three straight years, and could delay shift to service economy
Coco Feng
November 23, 2016

In Your Phone, In Their Air

Demand is growing for lithium batteries, and pollution infiltrates Chinese villages with graphite factories
Peter Whoriskey
October 28, 2016

Hawaiian Seafood Caught by Foreign Crews Who Are Confined on Boats

US laws permit harsh conditions, low wages and crews of undocumented workers
Martha Mendoza and Margie Mason
September 16, 2016

Despite Fears, Mexico's Manufacturing Boom Lifts US Workers

US multinationals hire an extra 250 US workers for every 100 hired in Mexico
Natalie Kitroeff
September 2, 2016