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.

US Tech Firms Look Abroad for Engineers

Reform bill would add 25,000 more H-1B visas
Kim Gittleson
June 27, 2013

The New New World

Latin America attracts talent from countries steeped in debt
June 13, 2013

Europe’s Double Jeopardy

Austerity measures added to youth unemployment, reduced support for an aging population
Nayan Chanda
May 24, 2013

Temporary Immigrants Mean Temporary Loyalties

Transience isn’t healthy for individuals or society
Ratna Omidvar
May 23, 2013

Pope Condemns Bangladesh “Slave Labor”

EU may adjust duty-free access to improve conditions
May 9, 2013