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.

In Florida Groves, Cheap Labor Means Machines

Machines may be able to save Florida groves from foreign competition, but at what cost?
Eduardo Porter
March 22, 2004

Outlook: Outsourcing America's Future

In the future, where will Americans work?
Jodie Allen
March 8, 2004

Filipino Workers, Activists Protest Over Jobs

Migrant workers in Taiwan cry foul over blacklisting
Cody Yiu
June 3, 2004

Immigrants Don't Steal the Jobs of Germans

As consumers, they contribute to the national economy
Patrick Welter
June 11, 2004

Letting Foreign Workers Past the Gate

Opening doors to immigrants will open doors for Japan domestically and abroad
March 29, 2004