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.

Fresh Setback for Schröder on Migrant Law

Plans to facilitate easier immigration to Germany run afoul of political opposition.
Haig Simonian
December 18, 2002

Managing Globalization: The Global Quest for a Second Passport

Dual nationality is on the rise, as more citizens cross borders in search of work
Daniel Altman
February 7, 2007

Behind Roses' Beauty, Poor and Ill Workers

While the rose industry in Ecuador is booming, labor conditions are of little consideration.
Ginger Thompson
February 13, 2003

Pew Survey Finds America’s Global Stature Diminished

The lone superpower is finding that power doesn't equal popularity.
December 4, 2002

Technology, Not Globalization, Is Driving Wages Down

Open trade and immigration policies do not reduce domestic wages
Jagdish Bhagwati
January 10, 2007