What are the main causes of piracy?

(B2) A survey of 66 Somali pirates who are in prisons in Somaliland, Puntland and the Seychelles has just been published. It is one of the first studies carried out in this way, which makes it possible to better understand the sources of Somali piracy, and the means of deterrence.

The economic situation causes piracy

Produced by UNODC in collaboration with the NGO Beyond the piracy (OBP), she points to poverty as one of the main reasons for taking action. Poor economic conditions are indeed cited as a main reason for taking action and engaging in piracy. " I was out of money so I decided to join the pirates in order to get some food quotes one of them. " My family is poor, that's why I join the pirates says another.

Illegal fishing in their area is another often-cited rational reason for piracy. The " illegal fishermen led us to become pirates remarked a prisoner. A significant number of detainees thus reject the term "pirates" or "piracy". They see themselves as fishermen.

The action of international navies as a deterrent factor

International navies, more than any other anti-piracy activity, are the primary deterrent. The presence of armed guards on board ships was also often mentioned, with the fear of being shot.

The prisoners declare themselves very impacted by the prison, and express a strong desire to avoid returning there. For those who know someone who has quit piracy, family or community pressure is often cited as a factor in quitting.

(NGV)

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