Fortress Europe

Asian Dub Foundation's 'Fortress Europe' is a powerful anthem that critiques the stringent immigration policies and fortified borders of Europe. The song's repetitive chorus, 'Keep banging on the walls of Fortress Europe,' serves as a rallying cry for resistance against these barriers. The term 'Fortress Europe' itself is a metaphor for the heavily guarded and exclusionary stance that many European countries have adopted towards immigrants and refugees. The lyrics paint a dystopian picture of a future where robot guards, cybernetic dogs, and armored cars patrol the borders, highlighting the extreme measures taken to keep people out.

The song delves into the hypocrisy of European nations that have historically caused turmoil in other regions, such as the burning village in Kosovo, yet now refuse to accept the refugees fleeing from these conflicts. The line 'Safe European homes built on wars' underscores this irony, pointing out that the comfort and safety enjoyed by many in Europe are often the result of conflicts and exploitation elsewhere. The song also touches on the theme of surveillance and control, with references to 'the chip in your head' and 'total control just around the corner,' suggesting a future where personal freedoms are severely restricted.

Asian Dub Foundation also emphasizes the power and rights of the people, particularly the younger generation, who are described as 'the children of globalization.' The song calls for grassroots pressure and insurrection to challenge the status quo, advocating for a world without borders and true connection among people. The repeated mention of a '21st century exodus' reflects the ongoing and increasing movement of people across borders, driven by various factors such as war, poverty, and climate change. The song ultimately serves as a call to action, urging listeners to 'tear down the walls of Fortress Europe' and fight for a more inclusive and just world.