Border coastal security port security intelligence homeland security

BORDER & COASTAL SECURITY, PORT SECURITY, INTELLIGENCE & HOMELAND SECURITY
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Evaluate the similarities and differences between the external borders of New Europe and the U.S.-Mexico border
There are similarities and difference between the US Mexico border, and Europe at the Germany- Polish border and Spain –Morocco border. The main similarity is that borders in New Europe, and US –Mexico border have become more rigorous in policing borders areas to stem out illegal immigration. Furthermore, the main concern is that ‘undesirables might cross over to New Europe and US, but this has also been accompanied by renewed calls for more economic integration. To deal with the threat of illegal immigration the borders in New Europe and the US, Europe has buffer zones especially in East Germany, but the US uses high tech technology to separate illegal entry points from Mexico. For Germany, creating a buffer zone with Poland is preferred, owing to the country’s past with the iron curtain policy during the cold war era. On the US border, American border patrol is mostly tasked with ensuring there is reduced illegal immigration into America. Similarly, in the Spanish Morocco border in Southern Europe there is increased policing akin to the U.S. Mexico border. Spain’s immigration policy is largely separate from that of Western Europe explaining increased patrol and border security measures stricter than in Western Europe.
Reference
Andreas, Peter. Border Games: Policing the U.S –Mexico Divide. Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 2009.
Has your perception of homeland security changed since taking this course? Why or why not? What was and what is now your understanding of border protection? Fully explain your response using course resources and outside resources.
My perception of homeland security has changed especially on the importance of coastal security. Prior to the course my understanding of homeland security rested on the notion that securing borders was the main issue of concern to homeland security. However, the issue of immigration and coastal security features prominently as this could also be routes through which terrorists can infiltrate the nation’s border. Border protection is a collaborative venture that aims to ensure safety of border, but should also incorporate policies aimed at improving international trade between and among friendly nations.
What has been the most interesting part of the course for you? Please discuss.
The most interesting part of the course has been on port security and impact of asymmetric attacks or disruptions on international trade. There has been increased scrutiny of port facilities following the 9/11 attacks and port security has become an integral part of homeland security. Even though, there have been various disasters on North American port facilities since the turn of the 20th century, measures to ensure maritime security and protections have not been readily adopted. Nonetheless, the disasters were a turning point on the vulnerability of port facilities and potential to cause economic loss. Even though, terrorism and counter terrorism measures still receive wide coverage in the press, there is no doubt that port security management is still a top priority issue in border control.
PART 2
The following historical incidents happened over 60 plus years ago. Assess the lessons learned from these port incidents and what measures have been taken to mitigate these issues from happening again.
A) Halifax Explosion – 1917
The Halifax explosion occurred after Mont Blanc packed with explosives exploded upon collision with a Norwegian vessel. One of the major lessons of this incident is that port safety is a national issue and should not be merely left to individual ports. The 9/11 commission in America follows on efforts to improve port safety where the US  authorities need to know contents before entry into the U.S. Canada is a major trading partner with the U.S. and the shared border and makes it easier to use sea transportation. One of the major changes from the Halifax explosion was adoption of Emergency Measures Organizations especially in Canadian cities and to some extent America, with the organizations charged with ensuring safety of residents.
B) Pearl Harbor – 1941
Japanese attack on the Pearl Harbor was meant to derail America’s naval power and merchant shipping in the period covering WW1.The incident necessitated the need for collective security measures at port facilities under President Woodrow Wilson. The attack made the Wilson Administration realize the vulnerability of American naval capability. This opened doors for more recruitment of Marine Corps, with the personnel now extending their work to international water territories. This also led to diversification of intelligence ...