Key Takeaways
- Both “Underway” and “Ongoing” describe the status of activities related to geopolitical boundary issues, but they emphasize different phases and dynamics.
- “Underway” often implies the initiation or implementation phase of boundary demarcation or negotiation processes.
- “Ongoing” reflects continuous or persistent activities, such as long-term disputes or protracted negotiations over territorial limits.
- The terms carry distinct temporal and procedural connotations within international boundary contexts.
- Understanding these nuances helps clarify diplomatic communications and legal documentation concerning border matters.
What is Underway?
“Underway” in the context of geopolitical boundaries refers to boundary-related actions or negotiations that have recently commenced or entered an active execution phase. It typically marks the start of formal processes like surveys, demarcations, or treaty implementations between states.
Initiation of Boundary Processes
When boundary delimitation or demarcation is said to be underway, it indicates that preliminary agreements or protocols have been reached, and physical or diplomatic activities have begun. For example, after a treaty signing, boundary survey teams may be dispatched to commence fieldwork, signaling that delimitation is underway.
This phase often involves mobilizing resources and technical experts, reflecting a transition from planning to active engagement on the ground. The “underway” status thus represents a tangible commitment by states to move forward with resolving border issues.
Implementation of Agreements
Underway also describes the implementation stage of previously negotiated boundary treaties, where agreed terms are physically or administratively applied. This includes erecting boundary markers, installing signage, or conducting joint inspections to confirm compliance.
For instance, the boundary demarcation between Kenya and Tanzania was marked as underway when both countries deployed joint commissions to establish physical markers along their border. Underway activities demonstrate the operationalization of diplomatic accords.
Short-Term and Focused Activities
The term often refers to relatively short-term or discrete operations within the broader boundary management cycle. These activities are typically goal-oriented with clear endpoints, such as completing a survey or finalizing a map.
For example, a boundary delimitation exercise underway may last several months, after which the focus shifts to monitoring or dispute resolution. The “underway” phase is thus a snapshot of active, measurable progress.
Signaling Political Will
Describing boundary actions as underway signals political will and cooperation between involved states to address territorial issues. It often follows diplomatic negotiations and serves as an assurance to domestic and international audiences.
For example, public declarations that demarcation is underway can enhance transparency and reduce tensions by showing commitment to peaceful resolution. This phase is crucial in building confidence among stakeholders.
Examples in International Context
In the India-Bangladesh boundary agreement, the demarcation process was described as underway once joint border committees started field surveys in 2011. Similarly, the Sudan-South Sudan boundary demarcation was underway after both countries agreed on technical mechanisms post-independence.
These examples illustrate how “underway” marks a defined starting point in boundary management, often after protracted negotiations or conflict resolution efforts. It represents an operational milestone in geopolitical boundary affairs.
What is Ongoing?
“Ongoing” in geopolitical boundary contexts refers to activities, disputes, or negotiations that are continuous and have not yet reached resolution or conclusion. It implies a persistent status where issues remain active and unresolved over extended periods.
Protracted Boundary Disputes
Ongoing is frequently used to describe disputes that have persisted without settlement for years or decades. These disputes may involve competing territorial claims, resource access, or differing interpretations of historical treaties.
For example, the South China Sea territorial dispute is ongoing, with multiple states asserting overlapping claims despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. The term underscores the unresolved and persistent nature of such conflicts.
Continuous Negotiations and Dialogues
Ongoing also captures the state of diplomatic dialogues that continue without definitive agreements. These negotiations may involve complex issues including sovereignty, security, and economic rights tied to boundary lines.
The India-Pakistan boundary talks over Kashmir remain ongoing, with intermittent talks reflecting the protracted and sensitive nature of the dispute. Ongoing processes often require sustained international mediation or confidence-building measures.
Maintenance and Monitoring Activities
Beyond diplomatic efforts, ongoing describes regular monitoring or maintenance of established boundaries, especially in contested or sensitive areas. This includes patrols, joint commissions, or surveillance to prevent escalations.
For instance, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) conducts ongoing monitoring along the Blue Line boundary between Lebanon and Israel to maintain peace and stability. This underscores the continuous nature of boundary management in volatile contexts.
Legal and Institutional Frameworks
Ongoing boundary issues often involve persistent legal and institutional challenges, including arbitration, adjudication, or treaty revisions. These processes can extend over years, reflecting complex geopolitical realities.
The International Court of Justice’s involvement in the Peru-Chile maritime boundary case reflects an ongoing legal mechanism to resolve competing claims. Such ongoing legal procedures indicate that boundary issues may transcend bilateral negotiations.
Impact on Regional Stability
Ongoing boundary disputes or activities can have significant implications for regional security and cooperation. Persistent tensions may hinder cross-border trade, movement, and diplomatic relations.
The ongoing boundary conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh has periodically escalated into armed clashes, affecting regional peace. Therefore, the ongoing status signals unresolved challenges with broad geopolitical consequences.
Comparison Table
The table below contrasts “Underway” and “Ongoing” across multiple dimensions relevant to geopolitical boundaries.
| Parameter of Comparison | Underway | Ongoing |
|---|---|---|
| Phase in Boundary Resolution | Initial or active execution phase post-agreement | Continuous, unresolved period with no final settlement |
| Duration | Typically short-to-medium term with defined objectives | Long term, sometimes spanning decades |
| Nature of Activity | Focused tasks such as surveying, marking, or implementing | Persistent negotiations, monitoring, or disputes |
| Legal Status | Follows formal treaty or protocol ratification | May involve ongoing legal proceedings or lack thereof |
| Diplomatic Implication | Signals cooperation and political commitment | Reflects unresolved tensions and complexity |
| Visibility | Often publicly announced as a milestone | Less defined moments, continuous media coverage |
| Examples | Boundary demarcation between Kenya and Tanzania underway in 2010s | South China Sea disputes ongoing since late 20th century |
| Impact on Local Communities | May temporarily disrupt areas during active operations | Can cause prolonged uncertainty or insecurity |
| International Involvement | Usually bilateral or trilateral commissions established | Often requires multilateral mediation or UN involvement |
| Outcome Expectation | Clear goals with expected completion | Uncertain resolution timelines |
Key Differences
- Temporal Focus — Underway refers to the commencement and active implementation phase, while Ongoing emphasizes prolonged duration without resolution.
- Operational Scope — Underway activities are specific and task-oriented; Ongoing activities involve continuous negotiation or dispute maintenance.
- Diplomatic Tone —
Last Updated : 19 June, 2025
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
