Workin’ on a Dream: Migration Policies in North America

Labor mobility has become an essential component in responding to workforce shortages, evolving industry needs, and demographic shifts across North America. As the region faces increasing pressure to fill critical roles in sectors ranging from agriculture and manufacturing to healthcare and technology, the ability to move talent efficiently and responsibly across borders is more important than ever. This panel explored the current landscape of labor mobility, focusing on existing visa frameworks, binational agreements, and policy tools designed to facilitate cross-border workforce movement. It also highlighted innovative, industry-led solutions that are helping to address labor gaps while ensuring the protection and development of workers. In addition to practical mechanisms, the discussion examined the broader economic, social, and security implications of labor mobility, offering a comprehensive perspective on how governments, businesses, and civil society can collaborate to create a more resilient and adaptive labor ecosystem in North America. Speakers: Andrew Selee, NCF25 FELLOW, President, Migration Policy Institute Dany Bahar, Senior Fellow & Director Migration Program, Center for Global Development Marcela Escobari, Senior Fellow, Global Economy and Development, Brookings Institution Sean Randolph, Senior Director, Bay Area Council Economic Institute Carolina Millan, Mexico Bureau Chief, Bloomberg News