Are US border walls divisive, and do they serve their intended purpose?

Starr County in Texas may seem like a peaceful place with its rolling hills and small towns, but its proximity to the US-Mexico border has made it a busy crossing point for migrants. Recently, the Biden administration announced plans to build a 20-mile section of border wall in the area, contradicting President Biden's earlier statement that he would not build any more wall. This move has reignited the debate on border security. Former President Trump ordered the construction of almost 460 miles of border wall, but studies have shown mixed results on its effectiveness. While some data from the Department of Homeland Security suggests that new walls reduced illegal entry by 90% in certain sectors, other studies have found more modest returns. One study even concluded that border barriers reduced migration by 35%, but it did not provide evidence that barriers were more effective than hiring more border agents. The Biden administration has repeatedly stated that it does not believe these barriers are effective. Some experts argue that barriers can redirect migrant flows to easier-to-patrol areas, making the Border Patrol's job more manageable. The term "wall" itself is a misnomer, as the border barrier includes various structures from picket fences to concrete levees. Even solid barriers can be climbed, cut, or bypassed by migrants. Many border communities have mixed feelings about the border extension. While they understand the need for a strong border, they are opposed to a wall or concerned about its implementation. Some residents believe that fences serve a purpose but worry about the environmental impact and the safety of migrants attempting to cross. It's worth noting that border walls have been constructed by every recent US president, including the Obama administration. However, these barriers have had little long-term impact on migration flows. Experts argue that enforcing a migration crisis solely through walls is ineffective and may even drive up profits for organized crime involved in smuggling and trafficking. In conclusion, the debate over border walls and their effectiveness remains contentious, with studies providing conflicting evidence. The Biden administration's decision to build a new section of the border wall has reignited the discussion on border security.