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The Impact of the U.S.-Mexico Border Wall: Impacts Analyzed

The Concerns Surrounding the Construction of a Border Wall in Texas

Dr. ADAM TABRIZ
3 min readAug 1, 2023
US Mexico Border
Photo by Barbara Zandovalon Unsplash

The debate over the U.S.-Mexico border wall has become a fiery battleground, with passionate arguments and fierce opposition on either side. Supporters contend it is a crucial measure for safeguarding national security and regulating immigration, while opponents raise concerns about its high costs and potential ineffectiveness. This essay delves into the reasons behind the wall’s proposal and how it could impact immigration patterns and the relationship between the United States and Mexico.

Vocal in his support, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas firmly believes in the importance of the U.S.-Mexico border wall, viewing it as vital for national security and safeguarding Texans. To assist with border security, he has deployed National Guard troops and state law enforcement while also advocating for the erection of the wall. Nevertheless, doubts have arisen concerning the financial ramifications of the extensive construction efforts and the potential adverse consequences on the environment and society. Despite these apprehensions, Governor Abbott’s dedication to fortifying the border and shielding Texans from unauthorized immigration and drug smuggling remains unwavering.

The Trump administration, citing concerns about Central American gang members and potential threats to American citizens, framed border enforcement as a national security priority, highlighting the need to control illegal immigration and drug trafficking. One of the primary reasons behind the U.S.-Mexico border wall is the perceived need for increased border security. The decision-making process and the allocation of funds took into account economic considerations, particularly the cost of constructing the wall. This move was made even more apparent by the appearance of migrant caravans from Central America, highlighting the difficulties involved in handling substantial waves of migrants.

Immigration patterns have been significantly impacted by the erection of the U.S.-Mexico border wall, resulting in a decrease in the number of unauthorized immigrants from Mexico. Various reasons behind this decline include improved economic conditions in Mexico and heightened border enforcement measures. Although not the only factor, the border wall has played a role in reducing unauthorized immigration from Mexico. The implementation of stricter controls by Mexico on its southern border adjacent to Guatemala has also impacted immigration, causing a shift in migration routes and increasing the mistreatment of migrants and their susceptibility to human rights violations. With smuggling techniques adapting to find new ways to transport illegal goods, the border wall has not only impacted immigration into the United States but also influenced migration patterns within the region.

Deciding on the best action for border security and immigration control necessitates considering various factors. One such factor is the impact the U.S.-Mexico border wall has had on bilateral relations between the two countries, particularly straining diplomatic ties.

The Mexican government strongly opposes the wall and sees it as a symbol of hostility and a violation of their sovereignty. As a result, tensions have arisen, and diplomatic relations have been strained. Another consequence of the border wall is its economic implications for border communities. It has affected trade, investment, joint production, and travel across the U.S.-Mexico border. Hence, a comprehensive assessment of these aspects is imperative in making informed decisions regarding the wall.

References

  1. The Wall: The actual costs of a barrier between the United (n.d.) Retrieved July 25, 2023, from www.brookings.edu
  2. How the U.S. Patrols Its Borders. (n.d.) Retrieved July 25, 2023, from www.cfr.org/backgrounder/how-us-patrols-its-borders
  3. A quick history of Trump’s evolving justifications (n.d.) Retrieved July 25, 2023, from www.politico.com
  4. How Americans see illegal immigration, the border wall (n.d.) Retrieved July 25, 2023, from www.pewresearch.org
  5. Mexico’s Crackdown on Migration at its Southern Border. (n.d.) Retrieved July 25, 2023, from www.wola.org/analysis/mexico-southern-border-report/
  6. The U.S.-Mexico relationship is dangerously on the edge. (n.d.) Retrieved July 25, 2023, from www.brookings.edu

Originally published at https://www.newsbreak.com.

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Dr. ADAM TABRIZ
Dr. ADAM TABRIZ

Written by Dr. ADAM TABRIZ

In this vast tapestry of existence, I weave my thoughts and observations about all facets of life, offering a perspective that is uniquely my own.

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