Pirates of the Gulf of Aden: How Piracy Plunders Maritime Security November 24, 2008

Host: The Heritage Foundation. Recent seizures of commercial vessels by Somali pirates have heightened awareness of these boldest of modern-day pirates, engaging in violence, kidnapping, and extortion on the high seas. And operating with seeming impunity, these pirates do not have to stop there. The success of their criminal enterprise invites their intrusion into less-than-legal ventures from arms and human trafficking to drug transport and money laundering. These acts are a reminder that sea-based criminal enterprises not only still exist, but also have tremendous implications on politics, tourist safety, military strategy, and the international supply chain. Join us as we explore this threat, discuss its origins and impact on local, regional and international politics, and examine solutions that will further the security of the maritime domain.

Official Website: http://www.heritage.org/press/events/ev112408b.cfm