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.

Nike Versus Sweatshop Critic: Back to California

The US Supreme Court decision opens the door to a lawsuit relating to globalization
S.L. Bachman
June 27, 2003

The Lure of Protectionism in Ohio

Shutting the door may be easy, but openness and innovation would be more effective
Susan Froetschel, Morgan Robinson
March 3, 2008

12 Million Shadows: America’s Immigration Dilemma

Demographics, economics, national security leave politicians with little choice but to accept de facto legalization
Joseph Chamie
February 4, 2008

As Immigration Debate Generates Heat, Dust Gathers on a Workable Plan

Immigration, essential for growth, can be managed with the reasoned approach of a 1990s reform plan
Joseph Chamie
December 18, 2007

US Immigration Policy Fritters Away Higher-Education Benefits

Close-minded immigration policy forces many US-educated foreign students to seek other pastures
Hassan Siddiq, Susan Froetschel
October 31, 2007

Globalization With Arab Characteristics

The Arab world must adapt and globalize to placate a young population
Marcus Noland
October 17, 2007

Chronic Problems, Not Just Crises, Should Be a Global Health Priority

One report suggests that poor vision alone costs the global economy $3 trillion per year
James Chen
September 1, 2016

Two Faces of Global Trade

Globalization leads to both fierce competition that threatens jobs and innovation that creates them
Nayan Chanda
August 30, 2016

It’s Just a Stealth Reform

Subsidies to encourage labor reforms won’t protect India’s textile industry from onslaught of automation trends
Nayan Chanda
July 25, 2016

Brexit: Boon or Bane

The British decision suggests that nations will struggle to cooperate on pressing global challenges
Nayan Chanda
July 11, 2016

Sweating in the Park or in the Factory: Beyoncé’s New Sports Wear Company and Respect for Human Rights

Celebrities can use clothing lines to combat abusive labor practices
Aleydis Nissen
July 6, 2016