Combating Piracy By Addressing The Humanitarian Crisis In Somalia

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Somali pirates continue to be a major threat to maritime traffic in the Gulf of Aiden, and while some efforts to deter the attackers have been successful, experts argue that the only long-term and effective way to combat piracy is by addressing the humanitarian crisis that is driving Somalis to commit crimes on the high seas.

A preventative strategy makes great sense to me, considering their are only finite resources to protect passing vessels, and by addressing poverty and lawlessness in the region will have a much more positive and lasting effect on peace.

Recently Somali pirates carried out the longest-range attack to date on an oil tanker, and while the ship was able to escape by using evasive maneuvers, a cargo ship loaded with weapons was taken by the pirates.  With twelve attacks occurring in the last month alone, including at least nine ships and 100 people still held captive, the it's abundantly clear that new strategies are need to combat the maritime threat. 

Somalia has been crippled by poverty, drought, rising food prices, and has not had a fully-functioning government since President Barre was overthrown in 1993.  It's estimated that one third of Somalians are in severe need of humanitarian aid, and according to groups like Oxfam and Human Rights Watch, the population also needs protection from military abuses.  Robert Maletta, policy adviser for Oxfam, argues that:

Without economic opportunities offering alternatives to criminality, and without law and order to curb these activities, then the massive economic returns of hijacking ships will continue to drive piracy.

A recent report from the Council on Foreign Relations also advises that combating maritime piracy will require onboard deterrents for vessels, coordination of international navies and anti-piracy patrols, and establishing a Somali coast guard, but that ultimately the only long-term solution is a stable state.  Creating that stability and addressing the humanitarian crisis will be no easy feat, but the issues must be addressed immediately.  Use the "Act" section below to find out what you can do to help.