The Politics of Cross-Border Mobility in Southeast Asia

This Element explores the complex dynamics of cross-border mobility in Southeast Asia, including historical, political, environmental, and economic factors that shape it. It also examines governments' efforts to manage different types of border-crossers and the tensions that arise from these efforts. The Element emphasizes the importance of considering bordering practices and cross-border mobility in understanding contemporary Southeast Asia.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element delves into the intricate dynamics of cross-border mobility within Southeast Asia, exploring its profound impact on diplomatic relationships between the region's states and the social and political landscapes of its key destination countries. It begins by providing a historically contextualized examination of the bordering processes that have shaped the region, delving into evolving conceptions of power and sovereignty and the processes of bordering that occurred during colonial and post-colonial times.

Next, the Element turns its attention to the political, environmental, and economic drivers of contemporary cross-border mobility, shedding light on the complex interplay between these factors and their influence on individuals, communities, and governments. It also examines the various strategies employed by governments to manage different categories of border-crossers, including migrants, refugees, and tourists, and the tensions that these efforts often generate.

In order to fully comprehend the politics of cross-border mobility in host communities, the Element revisits the question of why considering bordering practices and cross-border mobility is essential in understanding contemporary Southeast Asia. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diverse and complex factors that shape the region's borders and the ways in which these borders intersect with social, economic, and political dynamics.

By examining the complexities of cross-border mobility within Southeast Asia, this Element offers valuable insights into the region's rich tapestry of cultures, societies, and economies, as well as the challenges and opportunities that arise from the movement of people across borders. It serves as a crucial tool for policymakers, researchers, and individuals interested in better understanding the complex dynamics of this region and its role in shaping the global landscape.

ISBN-13: 9781108722896