Borderwalks as a tool to foster European Integration

Abstract

This contribution examines how guided “Borderwalks”, which are structured, thematic and participatory walks along national borders, can foster European integration by raising awareness of the legal, administrative, historical and cultural dimensions of border regions. Using the Upper Rhine region between Germany, France and Switzerland as a case study, “Borderwalks” are presented as an application-oriented tool for civil society, students, politicians and public administrations. Despite the objective of overcoming borders through European integration, border regions continue to face persistent legal, administrative and social barriers. The contribution first identifies the factors that shape European identity in border regions, drawing on insights from political science, social sciences and public administration, before introducing “Borderwalks” as a practical method that combines place-based learning with dialogue among diverse stakeholders. The Upper Rhine region exemplifies both the achievements and the remaining challenges of cross-border cooperation, including fragmented legal frameworks, differing administrative procedures and limited public awareness of EU policies. “Borderwalks” create a platform to identify and discuss these obstacles through concrete locations that illustrate border effects in everyday life, such as cross-border commerce, historical sites or transport infrastructure. These examples provide opportunities to explain differences in national legislation, the functioning of the EU internal market and the historical development of European cooperation. Conducted bilingually or with simultaneous translation, “Borderwalks” also promote multilingualism and intercultural exchange. Beyond raising awareness, they can contribute to identifying practical legal and administrative solutions to cross-border barriers, such as the mutual recognition of administrative requirements or improvements in cross-border transport. As a bottom-up approach, the concept complements the objectives of ECBM 2.0 by strengthening European identity and promoting the European values of freedom of movement, democracy, and the rule of law. While centred on the Upper Rhine region, the proposed methodology is readily transferable to other European border regions.