This paper explores why some of the world's most affluent democracies are failing the millions of migrants who are, ironically, indispensable to their continued prosperity. It identifies a number of responsible factors, ranging from the more general problem of a worldwide deepening of labour subordination, to more specific issues such as the growing stringency of immigration rules and residency requirements in rich countries after September 11, 2001. Possible remedies are suggested, including stronger union support for migrant workers, more liberal immigration policy regimes and more effective multilateral instruments for the protection of migrant workers’ rights.
