On borders and power: A theoretical framework

The paper starts with a short introduction on the development of border studies and asks whether the elaboration of a theory of bordering is possible. While being aware that some scholars consider the creation of a single analytical framework as something that is just not possible due to the diversity of the study f borders, the author is in favour of the creation of a common set of theoretical frameworks and constructs, and thus the creation of a common language in the multi-disciplinary field that is border studies.

Rather than simply lines in the sand or on the map, borders are institutions, which have their sets of internal rules. The extent of inclusion and exclusion is governed by these institutions. The self-perpetuating nature of institutions makes them resistant to change. To change the norms and regulations an intensification in levels of trans-boundary interaction on the ground is usually needed.

The bordering process is significant in the ordering of society. David NEWMAN states that ”the bordering process creates order through the construction of difference, whereby “others” are expected to respect the rights of the self, if only because they desire their own rights to be respected in the same way, or because the nature of power relations is such that they have no alternative.” (p. 15).

As the study of the bordering phenomenon is now multi-disciplinary, a research agenda for the study of borders is proposed. This research agenda for border studies can be dissected in two categories: (1) the portrayal of new ideas and concepts relating to boundaries which were not analysed in the light of the traditional study of boundaries and (2) the use and redefinition of concepts derived from the traditional study of boundaries. Based on a focus on the political – that is relevant or all types of borders, be they socio-cultural, economic, environmental – the following points are highlighted:

• Boundary demarcation, thus the processes by which borders are delineated and demarcated (cartographic, but also regulations and rules which determine who and what is included or excluded). The research focus should be on the parameters used for the demarcation of boundaries as well as on the often times imperfect fit of the functional and the territorial lines, resulting in borderland dynamics.
• Boundary management, the management of the border regime not only reflects but also determines the nature of trans-boundary interaction. The author declares that the effect and reflection of grass-roots transboundary interaction on border management procedures has been insufficiently explored.
• Transition zones and borderlands, these are the spheres of activity directly affected by the border (this can be the area in close geographic proximity to the State border, but also inner city areas where migration contributes to hybridization). “While the notion of “borderland” assumes the existence, and impact, of a border on the human landscape, the notion of “transition zone” assumes the opening, if not removal, of the border so that it ceases to have any sort of impact.” (p. 19). Research should focus on the hierarchical nature of these boundaries as well as the forces of hybridization.
• Perceiving the border, borders can be tangible phenomena in the landscape but can also be perceived. The study of borders therefore includes images, representations and narratives that figure prominently in popular representations and are part of socialisation processes.
• Boundary opening and removal, some borders where opened, as for instance in Western Europe, and some walls toppled, such as in Jerusalem in 1967, Berlin in 1990; or imperceptibly opened, such as in Nicosia in 2003. Another example could be satellite television and cyberspace, through which an idea of the lifestyles of the “other” can be acquainted. Only little research has dealt with the removal or opening of borders. One interesting research angle would be the effect of such vents on borderlanders. At the same time, the author is reminding us that in some places border control is loosened, while in other locations control is tightened (e.g. former state borders and EU line of control).
• Borders and power relations, any research on borders should raise the question of power relations. Here the questions are concerned with the groups in society who desire borders, but also with the professional groups that use their managerial skills to contribute to the process of delimitation and implementation of the border. Understanding about groups and power elites in whose interest borders are institutionalized has to be gained.

The author concludes that the notion of the border should be extended beyond the territorial sense. Other notions should be included to reflect on this world of hierarchical borders. The question of the function of the border as a barrier or as an interface is highlighted by the author as one of the most important questions.

Content

• Introduction
• Borders as Institutions
• The Bordering Process
• Towards A Research Agenda for the Study of Borders?
• Boundary Demarcation
• Boundary Management
• Transition Zones and Borderlands
• Perceiving the Border
• Boundary Opening and Removal
• Borders and Power Relations
• Conclusion