Somali Piracy: An Age-Old Solution to a Modern Day Problem
Abstract
The purpose of this monograph is to propose a solution to the problem of piracy off Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden. This report provides a historical background of piracy and more specifically, the history and the "roots" of Somali piracy. Of most significance is the lawlessness and lack of governance in the failed state of Somalia. Piracy off the waters of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden has spiraled out of control. The U.S. Navy and the international community have been unable to eliminate piracy, let alone reduce the threat. Despite the increased resources dedicated to Somali piracy, the attacks continue to increase. Pirates simply adapt and change their tactics, attacking ships further and further out to sea, in areas where there is no naval presence. Almost unanimously, experts agree Somali piracy will not be eliminated until there is functional governance in Somalia. The same experts also agree that effective governance in Somalia is not likely to occur anytime in the near future. Pirate attacks in Somali waters more than doubled from 2008 to 2009, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the 293 pirate attacks reported worldwide. This monograph finds that, so far, there has been a high tolerance for piracy. As attacks and ransom demands continue to increase, however, nations and shipping companies will bear an increasing financial burden. Providing continuous maritime security for the 2.5 million square miles of ocean and two thousand three hundred mile coastline around Somalia would require the fleet of the entire U.S. Navy. This is simply unsustainable. Conversely, restoring governance in Somalia would require no less than complete occupation of the country. Again, this is something the U.S. government is unwilling to undertake. The solution to the counter-piracy effort is the development of a Somali-based maritime security force, in a sense, privateering.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 19, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA530683
Entities
People
- Gregory R. Larson
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College