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.

Worker Visas Intensify Debate on Immigration

Jobs that demand computer, math and other high-tech skills are close to full employment in the US
Pamela Constable
May 29, 2007

What Offshoring Wave?

The West hangs on to most of its engineering, accounting and computer jobs – for now
Robert J. Samuelson
May 30, 2007

Globalization's Gains Come With a Price

Globalization pulls millions out of poverty, but also emphasizes growing income divide between skilled and unskilled workers
Bob Davis
June 3, 2007

Free Markets Need Free People

US immigration policy is highly impractical as long as illegal methods remain faster and easier than the legal ones
Gordon H. Hanson
April 23, 2007

Let Pragmatism Rule in Indonesia-Singapore Ties

Fostering ties with Singapore should be a priority for Indonesia
Sabam Siagian
April 17, 2007