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.

Wave of Immigrants Breaks Against Italian Island's Shore

Danger will not deter thousands of Africans seeking work in Europe.
Frank Bruni
July 11, 2003

Workers Falling Behind in Mexico

Wages have dropped but remain too high to compete with other developing countries.
Mary Jordan
July 15, 2003

Xenophobia has no place in Thailand

Animosity towards migrants is blinding citizens to their contribution to Thailand.
Pravit Rojanaphruk
July 16, 2003

Workers’ Paradise?

Unions could wield influence over the forces of globalization
Kenneth Rogoff
January 17, 2008

Europe Takes Africa’s Fish, and Boatloads of Migrants Follow

Industrial trawlers from wealthy nations ruin a livelihood for Africa’s fishermen
Sharon LaFraniere
January 15, 2008