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.

In France, Discrimination on Upswing as Violence Smolders

A culture that attempts to preserve itself through discrimination may be beyond rescue
Katrin Bennhold
December 10, 2007

2007 DMN Texan of the Year: The Illegal Immigrant

Illegal immigrants remain stuck in the center of a US culture war
January 4, 2008

Special Visa's Use for Tech Workers is Challenged

The high tech sector focuses on the L-1 visa as the primary reason for increasing unemployment.
Katie Hafner
May 30, 2003

Mexico Seeks a Lasting Share of Aerospace Boom

For companies in a hurry to deliver to the US market, Mexico offers location
Joel Millman
November 28, 2007

Western Union Empire Moves Migrant Cash Home

A company’s turnaround reflects the powerful force of global migration
Jason DeParle
December 5, 2007