The Impacts of Building a Wall Across US Borders with Canada and Mexico: Fact and Fiction

Recent political discussions in the United States often revolve around the notion of constructing a full border wall to reinforce security along the borders with Mexico and Canada. However, the idea of such a comprehensive wall is not only impractical but also deeply flawed when examined in practical terms.

Cost vs. Effectiveness

The claim that “Nothing would happen but it would cost the US tax payer hundreds of billions” is a recurrent argument. However, the reality is that building a wall along the entire border is a monumental project that would not significantly affect trade. In fact, the cost of such a project is staggering, and the benefits might be negligible at best.

Political Rhetoric vs. Logical Analysis

The political rhetoric argues for the construction of a wall to protect the nation and supposedly stem the flow of illegal immigrants and undesirable elements. However, logical analysis reveals that such measures are both impractical and ineffective.

Walls are a joke. Walls, from the days of the 12th century to the 21st century, have proven to be an outdated solution. Walls can easily be circumvented with affordable tools like a 80 reciprocating saw, which are widely available at hardware stores. In the 21st century, borders are rarely sealed off by physical walls alone.

Real-World Examples: Israel’s Experience

Walls have a spotty track record, as evidenced by Israel’s “Iron Wall” which was built to control the transfer between Israel and Gaza. The wall, comprising of 25-foot tall double fences, 10-foot deep underground concrete barriers made of 140,000 tons of iron and steel armed watchtowers with electronic sensors, radar, and more, has faced numerous circumvention methods in the form of underground tunnels, tunnels through the barrier, and crossing points. Despite the enormous investment, the wall has not prevented the flow of people and goods.

Border Control and Trade Dynamism

There already exists a significant portion of the border wall along the US-Mexico border, yet trade has not been significantly impaired. In fact, trade has been increasing and is expected to continue growing in the coming years. The wall is strategically placed to control the most populous areas, addressing issues such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal arms transfers. However, the concept of extending this wall to the entire border is both financially indefensible and not particularly effective.

Canada’s Perspective: Even More Ineffective

Even if the entire border with Canada were to be fortified, the projected costs would be prohibitively high. Most Canadians reside within 250 kilometers of the border, a fact that underscores the logistical impracticality of such a project.

Both countries are each other's largest trading partners. Building a wall would likely have little impact on their bilateral trade relations, which are already well-established and robust. Geographical and demographic realities suggest that a comprehensive wall would be more of a burden than a benefit to the United States and Canada.

Conclusion

Building a wall along the entire border with both Mexico and Canada would be an expensive and ineffective solution. Trade dynamics and the strategic positioning of existing walls indicate that the proposed project would not significantly alter the trade landscape or enhance security in a meaningful way.

Key Points to Consider:

Walls can be easily circumvented. The cost of building a full wall is prohibitive. Existing walls have not significantly impacted trade or security. Natural and logistical factors make a full wall impractical.

Investing in more effective means of border control and cooperation within the context of free trade and mutual security might offer a more realistic and beneficial solution.