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.

Mauritania Calls for Help on EU-Bound Migrant Flood

Mauritanian crackdown on illegal emigrations address symptom but not the cause
Ahmed Mohammed
March 20, 2006

NAFTA and Nativism

Illegal immigration cannot be curbed without “a new rulebook for the world”
Harold Meyerson
February 10, 2006

The Big Squeeze

Facing low-cost competitors, European car makers forced to cut jobs
February 21, 2006

How to Ease the Pain of Globalization

With right policies, the global IT industry can benefit all
Catherine L. Mann
February 17, 2006

Outsourcing Is Climbing Skills Ladder

Research and science jobs are the next targets for outsourcing
Steve Lohr
February 20, 2006