What border walls look like around the world
Erecting barriers between nations is nothing new. Many countries have constructed them for protection or to stop migrants. Here is a look at some countries that have created a barrier or plan to construct one along at least a portion of their border.
U.S.-Mexico
Various kinds of barriers along 653 miles of the 2,000-mile border. Here are the three most common types:
Turkey–Syria
Turkey’s barriers consist of concrete slabs topped with razor wire.
India–Bangladesh
India’s barriers are lower to the ground, layered with posts and wire fence, and rolls of barbed wire.
Israel - West Bank
Parts of Israel’s border have high, narrow concrete slabs topped with wire fencing.
Belfast
In Belfast, Northern Ireland, “peace lines,” are made of wood boards, or corrugated panels and posts topped with wire fencing.
Morocco – Western Sahara
Morocco built a 1,700-mile berm consisting of stones and sand peaking at about 10 feet high. Barbed wire fences and landmines are also used.
Great Wall of China
The largest barrier ever built, it was constructed during the Ming Dynasty using stone, brick and wood. It didn’t prevent invaders, but it remains an impressive feat of engineering.
Who builds
Sources: Elisabeth Vallet, Times reporting, Encyclopedia Britannica, The Basement Geographer
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
