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.

From Chiquita to Nike: Labor Activists Drive Corporations Bananas

Labor activists offer an inside story on popular products
John Lasker
May 19, 2011

Sorry, We're Closed

Fears of an “immigration tsunami” could complicate travel for all
Leo Cendrowicz
May 11, 2011

Peter Thiel: We’re in a Bubble and It’s Not the Internet – It’s Higher Education

With spiralling higher-education costs, the hunt’s on for other paths to career success
Sarah Lacy
April 25, 2011

Going Home: The Polish Migrants Who Lost Jobs and Hope in UK

The search for opportunity abroad ends in disillusionment
Amelia Gentleman
April 11, 2011

Visa Curbs Will Cut Overseas Students by 80,000, Says Theresa May

Tough British stance on immigration will most affect university campuses
Alan Travis
March 29, 2011