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.

Dubai’s Kerala Connection

Hidden behind the Gulf State’s development are Indian "foot soldiers of globalization"
Steve Raymer
July 12, 2005

Japan's Laborious Dilemma

The island nation faces a population crisis but does not appear to like the possible solution: mass immigration
David McNeill
January 13, 2005

France Hopes to Block the Wave of Globalization

The government plan to stem the flow of jobs abroad could be a futile last stand against the 21st Century
A. Sheshabalaya
September 20, 2004

The Price of Free Trade - Part I

With the abolition of quotas looming in 2005, textile producers like Bangladesh fear losing their advantage
Mustafizur Rahman
September 29, 2004

Tremors of Global Insecurity Reach Shangri-La

Nepal's response to the brutal killings of 12 workers in Iraq threatens the country's vital labor export
Kesang Sherpa
September 27, 2004

Certified Globalization

Private organizations are emerging to monitor and certify global trade flow
Tim Bartley
August 26, 2004

The Bitter Story Behind the UK's National Drink

Investigation describes poor housing and sanitation, low wages and child labor
Justin Rowlatt and Jane Deith
September 11, 2015

Indonesia Nabs Ship Believed to Carry Slave-Caught Fish

Associated Press tracked trawler with satellite beacon and alerted Indonesian authorities
Margie Mason
August 18, 2015

Indian Rapper “Overwhelmed” by Success of Protest Song Against Unilever

Company questions if poisoning is linked to work at thermometer factory
August 11, 2015

Be Honest: You Don't Care If Your Pretty Dress Was Made by Child Slaves

Shoppers can't resist a bargain
Julia Hartley-Brewer
July 30, 2015

Is Uber a Threat to Democracy?

Innovative providers and cost-conscious consumers cut out middlemen, regulations and taxes
Kemal Derviş
July 27, 2015