Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea Subregion: Threats, Challenges and Solutions
Abstract
Insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea is a function of the region's diverse natural resources, the vulnerabilities inherent in its geographical location, as well as environmental and demographic factors. Poaching, piracy, transnational crime, boundary disputes, and environmental degradation are common threats to the security of the Gulf. Although some steps have been taken by international and regional stakeholders to address these threats, inherent challenges such as uncoordinated international and regional initiatives, lack of situational awareness and response capabilities, and lack of robust legislative and judicial arrangements have militated against any expected successes. To combat threats to maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, the international community and regional authorities will have to adopt an integrated demand-based approach to identify, prioritize, and resource requirements to empower the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), an existing regional maritime security structure, to deal with the threats. This approach will promote unity of efforts and address the needs of stakeholders.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 16, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA560829
Entities
People
- Bamidele M. Shafa
Organizations
- United States Army War College