Zacieranie i odtwarzanie granicy w warunkach pandemii na przykładzie wybranych polsko‑niemieckich dwumiast

Abstract

The paper explores life on the borderland from the perspective of mobility processes. It treats the freedom of movement and various kinds of associated interventions as an example of processes of border blurring (debordering). This situation is juxtaposed with the temporary closure of borders and the reinstatement of control due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This blockage of mobility is described as a factor profoundly modifying life on the border and as an example of processes of border restoration (rebordering). The area where these processes are illustrated is the German-Polish twin cities. The presented results are based on the qualitative empirical research conducted in these areas – research walks and in-depth interviews – supplemented by additional telephone interviews conducted during the pandemic.