This means people and goods can move across borders but not all people and goods especially drugs. The idea of “open, but closed borders,” is trying to promote free trade. According to Andreas writer from Foreign Policy, “much of U.S. policy towards its southern neighbors can be characterized as driven by two agendas: promoting free-trade and enforcing market prohibitions (1996).”
What does Customs border authority entail? This entails the ability to demand assistance from those able to. The source of this authority lies with 19 United States Code, section 507, every customs officers shall, upon being questioned at the time of executing any of the powers conferred upon him make known his character as an office of the Federal Government; and have the authority to demand the assistance of any person in making any arrest, search, or seizure authorized by any law enforced or administered by customs officers if such assistance may be necessary (United States Customs Academy 1999, pg. 3-4).
What is the functional equivalent of the border? This is an area not on the border but considered to be part of the border. An area where for example ships dock in a port or south of Alamogordo, New Mexico where the have check stations. This can also be part of an international airport where international flights come