Introduction to International Politics
Foreign Event Analysis
| Locale | ![[]](http://www.kvasaheim.com/flags/flag15-so.png "Flag of Somalia") | Somalia |
|---|---|---|
| Title |
Piracy in Somalia
| |
| Summary |
An increasing number of pirate attacks on merchant ships off the coast of Somalia have been occurring, affecting commerce worldwide. Over 50 attacks have been reported this year, a significant increase from a reported 13 total attacks last year. As a result, insurance prices for ship owners have been increasing and possible military involvement may soon be necessary.
| |
| Analysis |
Somali pirates are attacking merchant ships out of self-interest. These assaults are possible due to newly acquired and increasingly advanced technologies. The pirates are exercising their power over passing ships with hopes of controlling the vessel and its crew. The benefit of achieving this control is the pirates then use the captured ship and crew to earn a ransom for their return. This action is taking place out of pure self-interest, based on the fact that these Somali pirates will benefit financially at that time as a result.
Ship owners are exercising the principle of self-help in that they have no one else to rely on at the time of seizure and have no choice but to pay these enormous ransoms of over $1 million. Ship owners are defending their own security against the Somali pirates. It appears action soon needs to be taken. Perhaps states and international players need to utilize military force and power to put an end to Somali pirate attacks. | |
| Perspective |  | Realist |
| In-Region URL | ||
| Out-of-Region URL | ||
| Submitted | September 18, 2008 at 8:33 pm | |
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