Effectiveness of Fences and Walls in Keeping Out Migrants: Debunking Propaganda Myths

Throughout history, walls and fences have been regarded as effective means of regulating the passage of people. However, the recent discussion around the effectiveness of such barriers largely stems from propaganda and a desire to criticize political figures like President Trump. The media's portrayal of walls as ineffective has largely overshadowed their history of success and the implementing government's failure to make the border less hospitable to illegal migrants.

Success Stories of Walls and Fences

Historically, walls and fences have proven to be successful in regulating migration. For instance, President Trump had record low illegal invasions during his tenure. This success can be attributed not only to the physical barriers but also to the policies that made the nation less hospitable to illegal immigrants. According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), illegal immigration costs the federal government over 260 billion dollars annually. This figure highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to border security, which includes both physical barriers and policy enforcement.

Challenges in Implementing Effective Barriers

Despite the proven effectiveness of walls and fences, several challenges can undermine their effectiveness. Drug dealers and drug traffickers employ various methods to circumvent physical barriers. For instance, drugs can be thrown over the walls, or individuals can crawl under them. The logic behind this is often purely financial. Drug traffickers aim to maximize their profits, and for every drug courier caught, at least 30 others manage to evade capture. This is a critical factor that must be considered when evaluating the efficacy of border security measures.

The Role of Propaganda and Media Influence

The failure of walls and fences to prevent illegal immigration today is largely due to propaganda and media bias. Reflecting on historical contexts, walls have always been seen as an effective means of controlling migration. The concept began to be depicted as a laughable idea overnight, following a shift in media narratives and an eagerness to attack certain political figures. This illustrates the power of propaganda in shaping public opinion and undermining effective strategies.

Strategic Implications and Government Efforts

It's crucial to consider strategic implications when discussing border security. Walls and fences help reduce the workload on law enforcement agencies. Governors, for example, often promote walls because they can reduce the need for police manpower, making it appear that they are taking a smart approach. However, this does not mean that the walls are ineffective. The reduction in law enforcement resources simply means that fewer individuals are caught, even as the borders remain long and challenging to patrol.

Drug Trafficking and Border Security

The effectiveness of physical barriers in drug trafficking is often questioned. The drug cartels understand how to exploit these barriers, similar to the strategic use of military tactics. For example, drug traffickers study war movies and TV shows to understand how to evade capture. Just as armies use M16 rifles to incapacitate but not necessarily kill, the cartels use various methods to circumvent barriers. Injured or smuggled individuals can be taken to hospitals, allowing others to sneak through undetected.

Conclusion: Towards a Comprehensive Approach

In conclusion, while walls and fences are not foolproof, they remain a significant part of border security. The continued failure to acknowledge their effectiveness can be attributed to the power of propaganda and the media's portrayal of them as ineffective. A more comprehensive approach that combines both physical barriers and strict policy enforcement is necessary to effectively manage illegal immigration and drug trafficking.