17 November 2014
UNSC calls on member states to fight against piracy off the coast of Somalia
On 12 November the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution renewing its call on states and regional organisations to adopt counter-piracy measures off the coast of Somalia. Acting under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, the Security Council reaffirmed its condemnation of piracy and robbery and called on the international community to intensify efforts in fighting a “threat to the East African country’s stability” through the provision a military presence, and seizing and disposing of vessels, arms and related equipment.
Despite the declining number of incidents piracy remains an issue according to a 2014 UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report released this year. Piracy “exacerbates instability by introducing large amounts of illicit cash that fuels additional crime and corruption in Somalia” and costs the global economy an estimated USD 18 billion per year. A 2013 analysis published by the UNODC, World Bank and INTERPOL estimated that pirates operating off the coast of Somalia have made ransom profits of up to USD 413 million over the past seven year.
The Security Council commended the work of these groups and encouraged both flag states and port states to consider implementing more comprehensive security and safety measures on vessels. It urged all states to take “appropriate actions” to prevent piracy and its associated illicit acts.
Source: UN News Centre | Somalia: Security Council urges Member States to strengthen efforts against piracy