On Friday 14 March 2008, Karsetn von Hoesslin (Senior Analyst, Risk Intelligence) will lead a discussion meeting on "Maritime Security Along the Horn of Africa" from 11 am - 12 noon.
A record number of incidents of piracy took place off the Somali Coast in 2007, while various other illegal activities both onshore and offshore continue to flourish along the Horn of Africa.
Although domestic political pressures have changed the key factions involved in piracy, and the international naval coalition (CTF 150) has to an extent marginalised the crime syndicates' areas of operation, piracy remains a threat. While recently there have not been dramatic attacks like that on the cruise ship Seabourn Spirit nor maritime terrorist incidents, the region continues to harbour a unique style of piracy. This is far from being defeated, given its close correlation with domestic instability.
The ongoing conflict in Somalia-proper, coupled with the Ethiopian military presence and increasing insecurity in the once stable semi-autonomous Puntland, ensures that piracy and maritime insecurity along the Horn of Africa is likely to remain despite international coalition efforts.
Karsten von Hoesslin is a Senior Analyst with Risk Intelligence and a PhD Candidate at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Bond University in Queensland, Australia. His research and interests cover both conventional and unconventional maritime security issues in the East and West African region as well as South East Asia with emphasis on syndicated criminal organisations and piracy and trafficking (arms, drugs, and human) tactics. Karsten's PhD research examines key risks to the marine supply chain and China's perception and anticipated response to such threats in light of its growing influence in the shipping sector. Karsten has also served temporary postings at the United Nations International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and is currently active in the Maritime Security Working Group with the Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific (CSCAP).
This meeting will be Chaired by Jason Alderwick (IISS Defence Analyst, Maritime) and will be held on the Fourth Floor at Arundel House, 13-15 Arundel Street, Temple Place, London WC2R 3DX.
If you would like to attend, please RSVP Kathleen James on james@iiss.org or tel. 020 7395 9109
