Topic: International Cooperation in Combatting Piracy
Country: Kenya
Delegate Name: Meagan Schlaf
School: Roeper School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Kenya position papers GLIMUN 2015 committees
Piracy is defined as “the act of boarding any vessel with intent to commit theft or any other crime, and with an intent or capacity to use force in furtherance of that act.”
Citizens of developing coastal countries comprise the majority of the victims of piracy, as their nations do not have the infrastructure to respond effectively.
The territorial waters of Somalia, a developing costal country, have had a piracy problem area for two decades. As a bordering nation, Kenya has also been affected. Kenya has suffered attacks by Somali pirates as well as the economic detriment that comes with bordering a nation with a piracy issue. Despite uncertain relations with Somalia, Kenya realizes the importance of aiding the nation in the fight against piracy. Kenya prosecuted many Somali pirates when Somalia was too unstable to do so, and piracy around Somalia has been declining since 2012.
While piracy in Somalia has declined, the problem has intensified in other areas. The Gulf of Guinea continues to be a hotspot for piracy and the Straits of Malacca have become the newest target. Kenya recognizes the threat piracy poses to those onboard ships, the maritime industry, international trade, and overall economic status of affected countries.
Somalia can be used as a case study for future solutions. The decline in piracy can be attributed to the instatement of further security measures, such as arming security personnel and increasing naval patrolling. Kenya has seen firsthand the benefit of these measures, but of course realizes the cost and economic infeasibility for some nations.
Though Kenya supports the implementation of such security measures as a temporary solution to piracy, it is vital that the entire international community assists in combatting piracy long-term. The primary responsibility should be placed on the countries affected but with the aid of larger, more stable countries, non-governmental organizations, and the United Nations. Piracy is a global issue and permanent solutions can only come from international cooperation.
Kenya recognizes that issues of national sovereignty will frequently arise, as pirated ships are in the territorial waters of various nations, but we believe a solution can be found that protects national sovereignty while still effectively combatting piracy. It is necessary to resolve this problem in order to maximize trade efficiency and protect civilians in every nation. Kenya looks forward to accomplishing these goals.
