Mobility and Borders: An Inquiry into Cross-Border Livelihoods in Global Border Areas

Borderlands, once considered the remote frontiers of nations, have emerged as dynamic zones of interaction in the era of globalization. Characterized by borders’ “porous hedge” nature, borderlands facilitate economic exchange, social interaction, and cultural dialogue, garnering significant academic interest worldwide. This paper reviews cross-border livelihood research, highlighting both global parallels and regional peculiarities. It is evident that border people worldwide leverage the border as a resource, capitalizing on disparities between adjacent regions to generate income. Small-scale cross-border trade, though informal, is inherently international. Smuggling and illicit activities, prevalent in borderlands, are also means of subsistence. Social relationships are critical for individual success in these areas. Research on Asian borders emphasizes cross-border farming in Southeast Asia. Studies on African and Asian borders focus on female mobility and the symbolic representation of state authority. Border people have ingeniously crafted valuable livelihoods through mobility, which are significant for the country and the people, exhibiting remarkable vitality.