Does 'Smarter' Lead to Safer? An Assessment of the Border Accords with Canada and Mexico

The events that unfolded in the United States on September 11 generated a renewed sense of urgency over border management strategies along the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders. Recognizing that a unilateral approach to security would be ineffective, bilateral Smart Border agreements were reached with Canada and Mexico in December 2001 and March 2002, respectively. The intent of these bilateral agreements was to preserve the flows of tourism and commerce between these NAFTA neighbors, while concurrently bolstering security efforts. This report tracks the implementation of these border accords and seeks to evaluate their effectiveness. In addition, it highlights outstanding challenges, key recommendations for policymakers, and draws conclusions regarding factors that make their efforts more, or less, successful.

The report finds that in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, both Canada and Mexico took internal measures to heighten domestic security. It also finds that, albeit to varying degrees, the bilateral agreements encouraged the development of innovative approaches to managing border security. In Canada, the Smart Border accord led to the creation of the jointly operated NEXUS fast-lane program, the planned expansion of Integrated Border Enforcement Teams (IBETs), a draft agreement on Safe Third Countries for asylum seekers and a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program, among other initiatives. In addition, the accord also encouraged the harmonization of visa policies, data-sharing, and biometrics standards between the United States and Canada. In Mexico, the 22-point agreement included provisions related to the secure flow of people, goods, and infrastructure. Among its accomplishments are inter-governmental meetings, the creation of working groups and task forces, the training of officials on fraud detection, and a focus on infrastructure protection, enhanced surveillance, and contingency planning. Most notably, the accord provided a platform from which to further coordination and cooperation between the Mexican and U.S. governments.

Based on these findings, the author recommends that all three countries prioritize the development of a long-term strategy for North American integration; resolve ongoing challenges at the border, including delays, outdated infrastructure, and smuggling; strengthen institutional capacities; and engage in a public education campaign to transform traditional misperceptions that pose barriers to policy implementation.