The Challenge of Piracy off the Horn of Africa: U.S. Policy in Dealing With Criminal Elements and Dangerous Non-State Actors

Abstract

In the failed state of Somalia, piracy is increasing at an alarming rate, impacting all nations that engage in trade or travel in the region. In 2011, Somali pirates attacked 122 vessels and successfully hijacked 28. Since the problem of piracy first escalated in 2008, thousands of hostages have been taken, including a number of American citizens. These hostages have often suffered systematic abuse and torture, and have on some occasions been used as human shields. In the last year alone, four American hostages were murdered by their captors. Although the economic cost of piracy is comparatively low for the U.S., it is imperative to address the issue before the economic and human costs of piracy become overwhelming.