Combating Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea: Understanding the Challenges of the Yaounde Architecture for Maritime Security
Abstract
Gulf of Guinea (GoG) member nations that signed the Yaounde Architecture for Maritime Security (YAMS) in June 2013 must work together to combat piracy and other maritime crimes. Despite international backing for this initiative, maritime security challenges have grown. In the GoG, seafarers are abducted, tortured, and ransomed more often than elsewhere. The regional response to maritime security issues in the GoG has not been effective because of several factors, including the cooperation non-binding code of conduct, the insufficient implementation and operationalization of YAMS owing to its cumbersome design, and the member states different interests and limited capacities to support their own maritime security. Drawing on open-source literature, including academic research, newspaper articles, and government reports, this study examines these factors that have hindered swift and effective implementation of YAMS. Through case studies of select member states, the thesis argues that these GoG nations with land-based security challenges must not only direct more resources to their respective navies but also collaborate to enhance YAMS. Piracy knows no borders, and thus, it requires a collective response. The thesis recommends GoG governments to seek regional solutions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1200351
Entities
People
- Felix N. Ajeagah
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School