Researching European Frontiers

Abstract

This paper reviews the literature on European frontiers to identify some of the main methodological and theoretical issues raised. Perceptions of socio-economic and political problems posed by European borders have radically altered since the 1960s. Anxieties and uncertainties about changes in the function of frontiers are apparent in political debate, and frontiers have attracted increased scholarly attention. Some of the factors, which have influenced the research, how it has been organized and funded, its achievements and changes in orientation, are assessed. Suggestions are made about future research activity and the difficulties it confronts.