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.

Wall Street Still Finds Ways to Hire Foreigners

Government regulations on foreign hiring may actually increase international labor flows
Robin Sidel
April 15, 2009

The Road Not Taken

Overpriced homes and limited health insurance are obstacles to worker mobility
March 20, 2009

Lawyers Wanted: Abroad, That Is

Economic downturn in New York City spurs lawyers to seek work in Asia
John Bringardner
December 8, 2008

As China's Losses Mount, Confidence Turns to Fear

Governments spend money to prevent economic crisis transforming into a political one
Ariana Eunjung Cha
November 5, 2008

Lump Together and Like It

A new World Bank Development report promotes urbanization as a critical engine of growth
November 10, 2008