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.

Illegal Immigration to US Slows Sharply

Lack of jobs cuts border crossings by more than half
Miriam Jordan
September 8, 2010

Law and Globalization: Not Entirely Free, Your Honor

Countries offer multiple approaches to the practice of global law
August 17, 2010

Headless Bodies and Other Immigration Tall Tales in Arizona

Extreme law, based on fallacy, terrifies tourists
Dana Milbank
July 16, 2010

Worry on the Jobs Front

High profits, low prices add to global unemployment
Nayan Chanda
July 12, 2010

Companies Brace for End of Cheap Made-in-China Era

Balking workers, fluctuating currencies, higher shipping rates add to costs
Elaine Kurtenbach
July 9, 2010