Facts
800 seamen in captivity
2010, $238 million have been paid in ransom
The conference named "Piracy Wake up", took place at Bergen Airport Hotel, and literally woke up the 150 or so delegates. The speakers shared many different and interesting aspects of piracy, and the largest newspapers and TV-stations in Norway reported live from the location and thereby managed to put piracy on the agenda during and after the event. Norwegian Hull Club was one of the sponsors of the conference.
Andrew Mwangura, known as the spokesperson for the Somali pirates and Coordinator for the East African Seafarers'Assistance Programme, received most attention because of his controversial statements and close relations to the pirates. He stated his negative view on armed guards on board ships for the reason that it will only provoke the pirates and therefore increase piracy, a viewpoint most of the shipping companies participating at the conference didn't share.
The armed guard-discussion was a hot topic, and Brian Bittner, representing Eagle Shipping International LLC, stressed the problem with the vast jungle of security companies and the large price differences. The shipping companies get approval via the Flag state, but the Flag states' requirements and approval of security companies varies. Thus it is difficult for companies to know for certain if a security company is of quality or just the cheapest one in the business.
Our own piracy expert, Stein Are Hansen could tell about NHC's proactive approach to piracy; giving guidance within the security jungle, though Class and Flag State requirements must not be jeopardized if onboard modifications are made, as compliance with Class and Statutory Rules is a requirement for insurance.
Ince & Co's Stephen Askins, one of the most experienced lawyers when it comes to working with releasing ships taken by pirates, stated that the timeframe from captivity to release is increasing. The average timeframe is today 120 days.
The future scenario of piracy is of course uncertain, but some trends and challenges for the future were pinned out. Christopher Coker, Professor of International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science shared what he meant were the main challenges; terrorism/piracy collision and political intervention.