Is fear of crime splitting the sister cities? The case of Los Dos Laredos

This article describes the change in border dynamics of the Laredo–Nuevo Laredo U.S.–Mexican border during the first decade of the 21st century. While the sharing and blending of cultures has long been considered an integral part of the regional identity, publicity related to crime in Mexico and fear of the potential for spillover crime has created a significant degree of separation between the two communities that once lived as one. In terms of social construction of place, the Rio Grande boundary separating the sister cities was relatively meaningless for many years as laborers, shoppers and tourists crossed easily between the two nations. The integrated cultural bond has moved towards a coexistence favoring growth in the Laredo economy while Nuevo Laredo struggles.

► Border cities that are interdependent may suffer strained relationships over crime.
► Concerns about crime lead to significant relocation of businesses across borders.
► Border trade is a local issue that requires partnership from both cities.
► Reliance on federal forces to address crime may interrupt local relationships.