Tourism is not always limited to discovering idyllic and peaceful destinations.
Sometimes it’s also an opportunity to explore places steeped in history and political tension. Today we will take you on a journey around 7 most disputed borders planets where you will discover:
- Unique and fascinating landscapes
- The origin of geopolitical conflicts
- Current issues for the local population
Kashmir: a region torn between India and Pakistan
It is located in the north of India and Pakistan Cashmere is a mountainous region claimed by the two countries since their independence in 1947. Despite several wars and diplomatic agreements, the area remains volatile with regular clashes between the Indian and Pakistani armed forces.
Jerusalem: the holy city at the heart of Israeli-Palestinian tensions
The three great monotheistic religions considered the city holy, Jerusalem is at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Old City is divided into four quarters (Christian, Armenian, Jewish and Muslim) and is home to sacred sites such as the Esplanade des Mosques, the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
The Spratly Islands: a disputed archipelago in the South China Sea
It consists of about a hundred coral islands Spratly Islands claimed by several Asian countries, including China, Vietnam and the Philippines. Rich in natural resources and strategically located on international shipping lanes, this archipelago is the scene of growing tensions between these nations.
Cyprus: an island divided between Greece and Türkiye
It has been a Mediterranean island since the Turkish invasion in 1974 Cyprus it is divided into two political entities: the Republic of Cyprus in the south (most of Greece) and the Turkish Republic of Cyprus in the north (only recognized by Turkey). Despite efforts at reunification, the situation remains frozen because there is a buffer zone under the control of the United Nations.
Gibraltar: British territory coveted by Spain
Located in the extreme south of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar it has been a British territory since 1713. However, Spain claims sovereignty over this rock strategically located at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. Tensions between the two countries are regularly renewed, especially over the issue of territorial waters and the favorable taxation practiced by Gibraltar.
Western Sahara: the conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front
Former Spanish colony, Western Sahara claimed by both Morocco and the Polisario Front (Sahara independence movement). Despite a ceasefire in 1991 and several attempts at negotiations, no lasting solution has been found to end this frozen conflict.
The Kuril Islands: the ongoing Russo-Japanese dispute
It is located between Russia and Japan Kuril Islands were occupied from 1945 by the USSR and then by Russia. However, Japan claims sovereignty over four islands in the south of the archipelago. Despite repeated discussions, no definitive agreement has been reached between the two countries to resolve this territorial dispute.
Beyond the political issues, these disputed borders offer exceptional panoramas and testify to a complex and fascinating history. Exploring these regions also means a better understanding of the current geopolitical reality and the challenges faced by the local population.