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.

The Great Skill Recession

Students are entering a global job market
Nayan Chanda
December 2, 2013

How Globalization Has Left the 1 Percent Further Ahead

The US pressures wages in Canada – and adds to widening inequality
Tavia Grant, Janet McFarland
November 28, 2013

Swiss Voters Reject High-Pay Initiative

But exorbitant salaries and exit plans are under radar
Neil MacLucas
November 26, 2013

A Global Challenge: Training Engineers for the 21st Century

Interest is low in the US and the EU
November 22, 2013

Saudis Bemoan Soaring Labor Costs After Migrant Exodus

Legal workers demand higher wages
November 11, 2013