TITLE:
Oil, Risk Analysis Techniques, Maritime Security and Safe Passage in Pirate Infested Gulf of Guinea Waters
AUTHORS:
Nana Raymond Lawrence Ofosu-Boateng
KEYWORDS:
Gulf of Guinea, Maritime Security, Risk Analysis Techniques, Vessel Traffic Service
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.5 No.12,
December
14,
2017
ABSTRACT:
Globalization has been the necessary catalyst that has catapulted international trade to new heights but not without some associated challenges. In practice globalization has in some cases created a backlash due to inequalities among regions. Seaborne trade accounts for close to 90% of world trade. Unfortunately, some of the sea lanes and routes have become vulnerable to pirate attacks, armed robbery, gun-running, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, drug trafficking, human trafficking and marine pollution. Securing safe passages to ensure smooth supply chain operations embraces the involvement of many actors and stakeholders. Technology is being harnessed to mitigate the scourge of the piracy menace. With the help of the Vessel Traffic Service along some of the littoral countries in the Gulf of Guinea, constant monitoring is achieved thus ensuring a partial safe corridor for ocean going vessels to ply. This paper examines the interplay of the threat of piracy to the safety of navigation, maritime security, seafarers and the risk analysis methods involved in ensuring that sea lanes which form a pivotal vital link to the energy needs of the Gulf of Guinea are met.