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.

Chinese Workers Build MLK Memorial: Investigation

US workers are flummoxed by Chinese willingness to work for no guaranteed payment
Annys Shin
December 7, 2010

UK to Relax Immigration Rules for the Rich

The UK lays out a welcome mat for the wealthiest immigrants
James Boxell
November 25, 2010

Chinese Remake the “Made in Italy” Fashion Label

As shoppers love fashion labels, immigrants set up shop in Tuscany
Rachel Donadio
September 16, 2010

Food Production: Agriculture Wars

Rising fertilizer prices signal rising global demand for food and fears of scarcity
Javier Blas, Leslie Hook
September 13, 2010

Light Bulb Factory Closes; End of Era for US Means More Jobs Overseas

The path from invention to product and jobs is rough and long in a globalized world
Peter Whoriskey
September 10, 2010