This is the world of global warming, where melting glaciers dictate borders between nations. The scenic mountains and rivers between Italy and its neighbors provide natural borders. The agreement between Italy and its three bordering neighbors: France, Switzerland and Austria; is that the rivers that run through the Alps are natural borders.

But as glaciers along the Alps melts, those rivers are changing course. And so the drawing pen it out again. Switzerland and Italy are about to conclude an agreement that will shift their border line along the Monte Rosa in accordance with new river partners. The Monte Rosa is one of three agreements. The changes are none two big, at most ten meters; nonetheless a reflection of how global warming is changing the world in so many ways.

The Swiss are not the first. The French are currently in talks with the Italians. And Austria and Italy have signed a deal that will enshrine for the first time ever the concept of a movable border.

Recognising that global warming will make any line based on the watershed of a glacier temporary, the understanding with Austria has for the first time introduced the concept of a movable border. Experts from both sides will be empowered to alter it at regular intervals.

The sad thing about this is that all governments seem to be content with the consequences of global warming. “Let the glaciers melt, we’ll just we draw the borders” appears to be their attitude.

What a shame, the Alps are quite a sight.

Source: A movable border.