Do we need a new pirate policy to ensure safety for sea vessels? I was recently reading about the sharp increase we are experiencing in sea hijackings. In 2008 there was an estimated 180 million dollars paid out to pirates for ransom from shipping vessels. So far in 09 there has been 80 million paid out by shipping vessels. The reality is that every time pirates kidnap a ship captain, they usually demand about 100 million dollars. Once the pirates realize that they can’t garner a sum this large, they usually settle for 3-5 million which is a substantial charge for ship owners. Additionally a new group of lawyers has arisen which handle negotiations between pirates and ship owners. I am telling you all this to stimulate your thoughts on this issue. In light of the huge cash ransom business which is growing year to year, do we need better international patrols? It is my opinion that if regional governments don’t do something to alleviate this problem, the trend will only worsen. Eventually it will get to a point where businesses are forced to hire on board security. Those that do not hire such security will be at increased risk for pirate attacks.
So what is the real problem with these attacks. Besides impeding shipping and business imports / exports, the real problem is that terrorist and drug groups are funded through this medium. The establishment of a patrol force and the upkeep would likely cost more than it is worth. However it would keep funds out of the hands of truly wicked people who only perpetuate cycles of illegal activity every time they gather money. When pirates attack and get a ransom, they then buy drugs and other illegal goods which just creates more criminal activity. Some organization needs to be developed to stop these groups once and for all.
