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Border barriers, often referred to as border walls, fences, or walls, are physical structures constructed along international borders to regulate the movement of people, goods, and sometimes animals between countries. These barriers can take various forms and have diverse purposes, ranging from deterring unauthorized migration to addressing security concerns, preventing smuggling, and safeguarding national sovereignty.
Fences are typically constructed with materials like wire mesh, chain-link, or other sturdy materials. They are often used to mark boundaries and control pedestrian traffic while allowing some visibility across the border.
Walls are more substantial structures made of concrete, brick, or other solid materials. They provide stronger security but can also obstruct visibility and communication between bordering regions.
World map below shows fenced borders in the world.
Purposes and Reasons for Border Barriers
Security: One of the primary reasons for constructing border barriers is to enhance national security. Governments build these barriers to prevent the infiltration of terrorists, criminals, and unauthorized individuals who might pose a threat to the country.
Immigration Control: Border barriers are sometimes built to deter illegal immigration. By restricting access to certain areas, governments aim to regulate the flow of migrants and ensure that immigration processes occur through official channels.
Smuggling Prevention: Border barriers can serve as deterrents to the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and contraband goods across borders. These barriers make it more difficult for smugglers to transport illegal items between countries.
Territorial Disputes: In some cases, border barriers are constructed as a result of unresolved territorial disputes or geopolitical tensions between neighboring countries. These barriers can help solidify territorial claims and reduce conflicts.
Disease Control: During health crises, border barriers might be established to prevent the spread of diseases, such as the quarantine measures put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wildlife Protection: In certain regions, border barriers are constructed to protect wildlife habitats and prevent the movement of invasive species across borders.
Prominent Examples of Border Barriers
United States-Mexico Border Wall: One of the most well-known examples is the border wall between the United States and Mexico. Parts of this barrier were constructed to curb unauthorized immigration and smuggling activities.
Israeli West Bank Barrier: This barrier was built by Israel to separate itself from Palestinian territories. It is surrounded by controversy due to its impact on the lives of Palestinians and the perception of its intent.
India-Pakistan Border Fence: This barrier separates India and Pakistan along their disputed border in the region of Kashmir. It aims to prevent infiltration and terrorism.
Hungary-Serbia Border Fence: Hungary constructed a fence along its border with Serbia to manage the influx of migrants during the European migrant crisis in 2015.
The Longest Border Barriers
The India-Bangladesh border barrier was often cited as one of the longest border barriers in the world. It aims to curb illegal immigration, smuggling, and other security concerns. The barrier consists of physical fencing, ditches, and floodlights.
Below is the top 5, the longest border barriers in the world.
Rank
Name
Length
1
India–Bangladesh barrier
3,268 km / 2,031 miles
2
Moroccan Western Sahara Wall
2,700 km / 1,678 miles
3
Pakistan–Afghanistan barrier
2,670 km / 1,659 miles
4
Ukraine–Russia barrier
2,000 km / 1,243 miles
5
Turkmen–Uzbekistan barrier
1,700 km / 1,056 miles
The Oldest Existing Border Barriers
United Kingdom-Spain barrier (Gibraltar) is the oldest existing barriers in the world built in 1909. Here is the top 5 the oldest existing border barriers in the world.
Rank
Name
Date built
1
United Kingdom-Spain barrier (Gibraltar)
1909
2
Hong Kong-China barrier and Forts
1950s
3
Korean Demilitarized Zone
1953
4
United States-Cuba barrier
1961
5
Green Line (Cyprus)
1964
Controversies and impacts of Border Barriers
Border barriers often provoke controversy due to their social, economic, and political implications. Critics argue that these barriers can disrupt local communities, harm wildlife migration, and exacerbate tensions between countries. Moreover, the effectiveness of such barriers in achieving their intended goals can be debated, as determined individuals often find ways to bypass or overcome them.
You can learn more about border barriers from the following books:
