ENSURING MARITIME SECURITY WITH PRIVATE ARMED GUARD, THE CASE OF SOMALIAN COAST PIRACY

The rise of incidents of piracy off the coast of Somalia in the Gulf of Aden and India Ocean affects the maritime security particularly concerning maritime security management. This paper will discuss the causes of piracy in the region and how far this development impacted the maritime security. What are the options adopted to manage the maritime security and piracy off the coast of Somalia; inter alia numerous United Nations Security Council resolutions as well as the works of the International Maritime Organization. Shipping companies are now considering of adopting the stationing of privately contracted armed guard on board of their merchant vessels, there are urgent needs to fully address the issue as it entails the question of legalistic as well as practical nature on whether it is a solution to the menace or just another option. Should the responsible flag States allow it to operate under its flag? The role of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as the international regulatory body with regard to worldwide shipping would also be examined.