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.

Leaner Factories, Fewer Workers Bring More Labor Unrest to China

As China opens its economy, laid off workers at state-owned factories get angry.
Erik Eckholm
March 19, 2002

New Immigration Rules: “A Plan for More Segregation”

The new policy is not exactly a welcome mat, critics charge
Ferda Ataman
October 17, 2008

Chinese Girls’ Toil Brings Pain, Not Riches

Worker’s rights suffer in China’s export sector
Joseph Kahn
October 2, 2003

Dreams, Deferred

For recent international graduates in New York City, "a dream job is just out of reach."
Erika Kinetz
June 1, 2003

High-Tech Ties Bridge Mideast Divide

Programs that encourage Palestinians and Israelis working and trading together promote peace
Robert W. Gee
September 8, 2008