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.

Laos in Danger of Losing Jobs, Culture as Chinese Pour In

Unusual report from Chinese newspaper reflects on rapid loss of culture and control
Ken Quimbach
February 19, 2014

Where We Go From Here

NAFTA can’t resolve all economic challenges
Ernesto Zedillo
February 17, 2014

Cambodia Garment Worker Dreams of Better Future

Workers earn less than $3.50 per day
Kyle James
February 14, 2014

Tennessee Legislators Threaten to Withhold Incentives if VW workers Choose Union

VW claims that work councils, or unions, are key to success
Brent Snavely
February 12, 2014

Obama Must Face the Rise of the Robots

Manufacturing jobs are shed as productivity rises, thanks to robots
Edward Luce
February 7, 2014