The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the principal global trade association for ship owners, has issued a paper drawing upon the international shipping industry’s experience of Somali-based piracy during the period 2007 to 2013.
ICS has produced its paper following a dramatic reduction in the number of successful attacks against ships by Somali pirates, currently at a five-year low thanks to the combined success of sustained compliance with industry Best Management Practices (BMP), the use of private maritime security companies, the activity of military assets and new capacity building initiatives ashore.
Capacity to Attack Remains
Despite this, pirates are still active and retain the capacity to attack far into the Indian Ocean. ICS therefore continues to emphasise it is premature to conclude the crisis is over, with seafarers still held hostage in Somalia, some of whom have now been in captivity for three years.
Protective Measures Still Needed
In 2013, there were at least thirteen reported incidents involving Somali pirates including two hijackings. ICS stresses that adherence to the industry’s latest BMP and, where necessary, the deployment of private armed guards, continue to be vital self-protective measures. Military protection is also considered to be vital.
Challenges Faced
The ICS paper explains the significant challenges the shipping industry has faced in responding to the crisis in the Indian Ocean, which escalated dramatically in 2007, including getting the initial attention of governments and raising awareness in the media.
The importance of clarifying the rights and obligations of sovereign nations to address piracy and of the need to engage with military authorities is also addressed.
Download the ICS Paper through the ICS website.
