The Shaping of Policy
This chapter explores patterns of policy enforcement of the variable border: where it is enforced and with what effectiveness. Policies reflect intentions to control migration patterns across the variable border, and to shape and constrain how the border actually functions. The chapter examines how the implementation of border controls reshapes policy on the ground. Control appears to be effective on both sides of the Atlantic. At the same time, a large number of migrants have gained access for long-term residence. Effective controls have shaped migration, but have also permitted large numbers of immigrants to enter from year to year. Most decision-making on entry has been externalized to countries of origin, where most people desiring to enter are granted visas. Most rejections are at land and sea ports, in part because these applications for admission are made for asylum, which is governed by more demanding rules and a different process.