Somali piracy, 2002 - 2011 : the convergence of routine activity theory and regulatory pluralism

Abstract

Maritime piracy off the coast of Somalia was first recognised as a global concern in 2008 after the hijackings of World Food Programme vessels. It remains a serious impediment to international maritime trade and a significant risk to seafarers. This thesis analyses Somali piracy from the perspectives of Routine Activity Theory and regulatory pluralism. The supply of motivated offenders is all but guaranteed by a number of persistent factors. Somalia has suffered almost a quarter century of limited governance, weak rule of law, ongoing civil conflict, and a feeble economy with few opportunities for lawful employment. Vulnerable targets for piracy, not all of which are capable of self-protection, abound in the Gulf of Aden and off the Horn of Africa. Capable guardianship has also been lacking; there is no effective Somali state to safeguard shipping in the region, requiring the involvement of assistance from foreign naval forces. Based on data from a range of sources, including published documents and in-depth interviews with representatives of industry, government, and international organisations, the thesis concludes that no one institution or policy will suffice to control Somali piracy. Accordingly, a number of different actors and institutions have a role to play in reducing the supply of motivated offenders, the vulnerability of prospective victims, and in enhancing guardianship. The thesis envisages a pluralistic model for the ideal configuration of institutions to control Somali piracy in both the immediate future and the longer term. Show more