Piracy or Maritime Terrorism? Developing a Comprehensive U.S. Counter-Piracy Policy

In this post-9/11 world, maritime security has taken on a much greater importance than in the past. No longer can the U.S. rely on vast ocean expanses to protect its homeland from seaborne attack or think of maritime violence as a law enforcement problem. Modern piracy is as ruthless and violent as it has ever been, only nowadays the stakes are substantially higher and its instruments far deadlier. Global piracy and violence at sea are now national security threats and must be dealt with as such. Piracy and international terrorism are no longer mutually exclusive; one supports the other. To protect its national interests and provide for maritime security, the U.S. must develop a comprehensive counter-piracy policy that utilizes a multi-faceted approach in order to combat the global threat that modern piracy brings. With the U.S. deeply integrated into the global economy, it is imperative that security on our oceans remains undeniable in order to provide uninterrupted trade routes and secure access to U.S. shores. The U.S. is a key actor in supporting international efforts to repress piracy and must continue to lead the fight. However, the U.S. can not do it alone. Constant budgetary constraints, expanding international trade, and the oceans' vast expanse won't allow it. By looking at current terrorist ties to piracy, potential maritime threats, international law considerations, and current U.S. counter-piracy efforts, five recommendations are offered for developing a comprehensive U.S. counter-piracy policy. Only through international and inter-agency cooperation can we maximize our ability to provide global maritime security and repress piracy on the high seas.