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.

A World of People on the Move

Migration is a fact of life in a global economy
Antonio Guterres
December 3, 2007

Chasing the Chinese Dream

China puts out a new welcome mat for immigrants
Ariana Eunjung Cha
October 25, 2007

Bloodstained Rubies Fund Burmese Regime

Despite condemnation, Westerners still send millions of dollars to the corrupt junta – for baubles
Beat Balzli
October 25, 2007

When I'm 64

The elderly of Europe don't have to stop working and can avoid a retirement crisis
Hans Ulrich Maerki
November 1, 2007

Dare to Compare?

A study ranks the nations of Europe on immigration policy
Kathy Tzilivakis
November 2, 2007