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 Better Life on the Production Line

But is improvement in standard of living a justification for exploitation?
Dan Roberts
February 5, 2003

HSBC to Double Offshore Jobs

Executive at world's second-largest bank defends outsourcing and dismisses critics
Mark Bendeich
March 16, 2005

Opponents of Wal-Mart to Coordinate Efforts

Unions, environmentalists, and community groups take aim at the world's largest retailer
Steven Greenhouse
April 5, 2005

Don't Blame Wal-Mart

Today's economy grants consumers deals at the expense of workers and communities
Robert B. Reich
February 28, 2005

China Blocks World Meeting on Workers' Rights

China cites inconvenient timing in withdrawing visas for participants of an OECD sponsored meeting
Joseph Kahn
December 9, 2004