Divided

1. Walls symbolize deep-rooted divisions in societies worldwide

"Walls can reduce illegal crossings, although this particular border barrier is an especially porous one, but they do more – they make people who 'want something to be done' feel that something is being done."

Physical and psychological barriers. Walls and fences are tangible manifestations of societal divisions, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. They reflect deep-seated fears, conflicts, and power imbalances between groups.

Global phenomenon. From the US-Mexico border to the West Bank, from the Indian subcontinent to the Korean Peninsula, barrier-building is on the rise. These structures often exacerbate tensions and reinforce "us vs. them" mentalities.

Illusion of security. While walls may provide a sense of control or protection, they rarely address the root causes of conflicts or migration. Instead, they can create a false sense of security while diverting resources from more effective long-term solutions.

2. Historical borders shape modern conflicts and identities

"The borders were drawn – by the British – to separate off areas that had a mainly Muslim population. And so that year two states came into being, India and Pakistan, the latter comprising West and East Pakistan."

Colonial legacies. Many of today's conflicts stem from arbitrary borders drawn by colonial powers, disregarding ethnic, linguistic, and religious realities on the ground.

Artificial divisions. Examples include:

• The Durand Line between Afghanistan and Pakistan
• The Sykes-Picot Agreement in the Middle East
• The partition of India and Pakistan

Persistent tensions. These historical divisions continue to fuel separatist movements, border disputes, and ethnic conflicts in regions worldwide, challenging the stability of modern nation-states.

3. Immigration fuels nationalism and challenges social cohesion

"As attitudes began to change, certain borders within the EU started to tighten again as many countries sought to regain control over the number of immigrants crossing their boundaries."

Rising anti-immigrant sentiment. Rapid demographic changes have led to a backlash in many countries, with populist and nationalist movements gaining support.

Strain on social systems. Large-scale immigration can put pressure on:

• Housing
• Healthcare
• Education
• Employment

Cultural anxieties. Fears of losing national identity or traditional ways of life drive support for stricter border controls and anti-immigrant policies, even in traditionally open societies.

4. Religious and cultural differences create parallel societies

"There are parts of some urban areas (Luton, Burnley, Manchester and Oldham, for example) that are overwhelmingly Muslim and have little contact with nearby, predominantly non-Muslim neighbourhoods."

Segregated communities. In many cities, distinct ethnic or religious enclaves have formed, with limited interaction between groups.

Integration challenges. Differences in values, customs, and languages can hinder social cohesion and create misunderstandings between communities.

Policy dilemmas. Governments struggle to balance:

• Respect for cultural diversity
• Promotion of shared national values
• Prevention of extremism and social fragmentation

5. Economic inequality reinforces social and physical barriers

"Gated communities threaten to weaken social cohesion wherever they are built."

Spatial segregation. Economic disparities manifest in physical separation, with wealthy enclaves walling themselves off from poorer areas.

Unequal access. This segregation leads to disparities in:

• Quality of education
• Healthcare services
• Job opportunities
• Public amenities

Erosion of civic engagement. As the wealthy retreat into exclusive spaces, there's less interaction between social classes and reduced investment in shared public goods.

6. Tribalism persists in the face of globalization

"Even with increasing urbanization, these tribal traditions have been able to continue and create new communities as people group together."

Enduring identities. Despite increased global connectivity, many people maintain strong attachments to ethnic, religious, or regional identities.

Political implications. Tribal loyalties often supersede national allegiances, challenging the cohesion of multi-ethnic states and fueling separatist movements.

Adaptation to modernity. Traditional tribal structures evolve to fit urban contexts, creating new forms of communal organization and solidarity networks.

7. Climate change will drive mass migration and new divisions

"If the majority of scientists are correct in their predictions of climate change, then it's obvious they will continue to be on the move this century. A wall has yet to be built that can withstand that much weight pressing against it."

Environmental refugees. Rising sea levels, desertification, and extreme weather events will displace millions, particularly in vulnerable regions like Bangladesh and sub-Saharan Africa.

Geopolitical tensions. Mass movements of people will strain international relations and test the capacity of receiving countries to absorb new populations.

Resource conflicts. Competition for water, arable land, and other resources will intensify, potentially leading to new barriers and conflicts between states and communities.

8. Technology enables and reinforces societal segregation

"The Great Firewall of China is known in China as the 'Golden Shield'. This outward-facing firewall is supposed to protect the Chinese population from such damaging ideas as democracy, free speech and unplugged culture."

Digital divides. Online echo chambers and algorithmic filtering create virtual walls, reinforcing existing biases and limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.

Surveillance and control. Governments use technology to monitor and restrict the movement of people, both within and across borders.

Examples:

• China's social credit system
• Biometric border controls
• Internet censorship and firewalls

Cyber-nationalism. Social media amplifies nationalist sentiments and facilitates the spread of divisive ideologies across borders.

9. Walls often fail to solve underlying issues but provide temporary relief

"Walls rarely work, but they are powerful symbols of action against perceived problems."

Short-term solutions. Physical barriers may reduce immediate pressures but often fail to address root causes of conflicts or migration.

Unintended consequences. Walls can:

• Disrupt local economies and communities
• Harm wildlife and ecosystems
• Redirect, rather than stop, unauthorized crossings

Political symbolism. The act of building walls often serves domestic political purposes, regardless of their practical effectiveness.

10. Bridging divides requires understanding and addressing root causes

"There is no getting away from the aspiring nationalism of peoples torn apart by the colonial era. They did not agree to join federations given names by Europeans."

Historical context. Recognizing the origins of conflicts and divisions is crucial for developing lasting solutions.

Economic development. Addressing poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities in source countries can reduce migration pressures and separatist sentiments.

Inclusive policies. Promoting integration, cultural exchange, and equal rights can help diverse societies cohere without resorting to walls and exclusion.

Diplomacy and cooperation. International collaboration is essential for addressing global challenges like climate change, migration, and conflict resolution that transcend national borders.

Last updated: November 8, 2024