Unions are declining, and the working and middle classes are paying the price. Reviving labor won't be easy -- but doing so is critical to preserving America's economic and social health.

Jobs growth was slow in May, renewing pessimism about the U.S. economy.

This module features teaching notes for Reforming U.S. Patent Policy: Getting the Incentives Right by author Keith E. Maskus, along with other resources to supplement the text. This Council Special Report acknowledges the importance of patent protection for innovation but also warns against blind adherence to the mantra that more protection will necessarily produce more innovation.

Two controversial U.S. anti-piracy bills have spotlighted the growing challenge of how to protect intellectual copyrights, particularly across international borders, without compromising Internet freedom.

Migrants suffer as countries around the world adopt protectionist measures to respond to the global downturn. This could trigger economic and social instability in poorer countries, while adversely affecting rich economies in the long-term.

The idea of creating green jobs drew great attention as the stimulus package made its way through Congress. Defining those jobs is difficult, however, and economists say many may simply displace existing jobs in the old carbon-based economy.

The resignation of South African President Thabo Mbeki has exposed a rift in the ruling ANC party, raising questions about the future of one of the continent's champions and a regional powerbroker.

France’s new president has ambitious plans for the country’s economy. But to push through reforms, he will have to face down nationwide strikes.

With fears over globalization growing, Congress may overhaul legislation aimed at protecting U.S.workers adversely affected by trade.

The French government's backdown on plans to reform youth labor laws has raised concerns about the country's ability to adapt to globalization, as well as how failure to pass the law will impact the continent.

Gayle Tzemach Lemmon discusses the need for the development community to adopt a comprehensive approach to skills training for entrepreneurs in conflict and post-conflict zones.

Walter Russell Mead discusses fundamental changes in China's labor force.

Newspaper and magazine stories refer to a "loss of nerve", even a "loss of faith" in free trade by economists. When presidential candidates are challenged by free trade proponents, they typically say: "Ah, but economists no longer have a consensus on free trade." But the truth of the matter is that free trade is alive. The analytical arguments in favor of trade have hardly been dented by its critics, such as Alan Blinder, arrayed against it.

Acting Secretary Blank discusses policies and investments for supporting U.S. competitiveness and job growth.

President Obama formed the Council on Jobs to provide differing perspectives and non-partisan advice on bolstering the economy through fostering job creation, innovation, growth, and competitiveness. At this CFR meeting, experts discuss the Council's work and recommendations.