The e-Walls of Brexit: Digital Adjustments in Customs Programs Between France, Belgium and the United Kingdom

Abstract

ABSTRACT Contemporary border wall policies are characterized by digitization of control procedures to filter out mobilities and adjust control to trade flows. This digitization has been mostly studied in terms of technology deployment and usages by state and non-state actors to deal with migration. When applied to control of trade flows, “smart bordering” also involves functional adjustments between public and trade actors, as well as customs cooperation. The bordering at stake with Brexit provides a revealing case study. Brexit entailed supply chain security for goods crossing the UK–France/Belgium border. For companies, transporters, and customs, avoiding physical controls at ports became imperative. Each country generalized data sharing and pre-lodgment through “smart bordering” models and various Information Technology (IT) programs. This paper examines such digitization programs and the adjustments between public and private actors confronted with IT programs and the mutation and cooperation of customs agencies in this process. It concludes that the UK lacked anticipation, while France and Belgium were proactive in accordance with EU harmonization. The digitization of control also reveals changes in identity-making of customs, emphasizing its autonomy as a border agent and its role as a trade supporter, on top of traditional policing or taxation duties.