The Controversial Idea of Building a Wall to Combat Illegal Immigration: Mexico's Perspective

Recently, Mexico's President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has presented a proposal to the United States for a wall along the southern border, with the aim of stopping illegal immigration and waste management issues. While it might seem like a simple solution, the idea of constructing a wall has been hotly debated for centuries, and its effectiveness is often questioned.

Is Mexico Considering Building a Wall to Tackle Illegal Immigration?

President Obrador has approached US president Biden, asking for $20 billion to address the issue of illegal trash at the border. This comes at a time when the topic of border security and illegal immigration has been at the forefront of both domestic and international discussions. However, the underlying motives behind such a proposal are not always clear. How will this money be used, and will it actually achieve its intended purpose?

The Economic and Social Implications

At its core, the question of building a wall is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, the economic benefits of allowing free movement of people and goods are significant, especially when remittances sent by Mexican citizens living in the United States account for a substantial percentage of Mexico's GDP. Furthermore, a wall might unnecessarily hinder the economic and cultural ties between the two countries, which have historically been mutually beneficial.

#124 #124 Note: Not in Mexico’s interest to stop Mexicans from coming to the US, there is too much money being sent back to Mexico by Mexicans.

Historical and Future Perspectives on Walls

Historically, the concept of walls as a solution to border issues has been proven ineffective. Throughout history, walls and fortifications have often failed to achieve their goals, with attempts to overcome them often successful. In the 21st century, the idea of building a wall faces even greater challenges due to advanced technologies and improved tactics.

For instance, a wall constructed by Israel to separate Gaza, known as the "Iron Wall," despite its extensive and sophisticated infrastructure, has been breached multiple times by Hamas. The wall consists of a 25-30 foot tall double fence, a "no-go zone," 10-foot deep underground concrete barriers, armed watchtowers, electronic sensors, radar, aerial surveillance, and sand traps. However, despite its apparent strength, the walls have been breached, highlighting the futility of relying solely on physical barriers for border security.

Alternative Solutions and Recognition of Human Rights

Many argue that walls are not just ineffective but also inhumane. They suggest that instead of focusing on physical barriers, efforts should be directed towards addressing the root causes of migration, such as poverty, inequality, and political instability. These issues, if properly addressed, could lead to more stable and prosperous societies, thus reducing the inclination of people to migrate.

Furthermore, the constructed narrative of walls often overlooks the reality that people from Mexico possess critical thinking skills and are not willing to waste resources on futile constructs. They recognize the absurdity and ineffectiveness of such projects and see through the facade of border security that a wall represents.

For example, the idea of building a wall to keep out "violent and offensive Americans" is a myopic view of a complex issue. Instead, a more productive approach would be to focus on community bridges and cooperation, which can foster mutual understanding and respect, rather than erecting physical and emotional barriers that divide people.

Ultimately, the debate over walls is not just about economics or security but also about the principles of human rights, dignity, and the potential for cooperation and understanding between nations. As the world continues to grapple with border and immigration issues, it is crucial to consider alternatives that promote peace, justice, and mutual prosperity.