5. Coping With Piracy: The European Union And The Shipping Industry

Abstract

Piracy attacks off the Somali coast pose a threat to international maritime trade and to the UN World Food Programme (WFP). In addressing Somali piracy, the European Union (EU) is one of the leading actors. This chapter looks at the interests and initiatives taken by both the European Union and the shipping industry, how these relate to each other, and what can be done for both sides to strengthen their joint approach to deal with the piracy threat. It outlines what is at stake from a European strategic point of view and from a business point of view, thereby providing insights into the following topics: the EU's interests and initiatives; the interests and initiatives of the shipping industry; and the opportunities for cooperation between the EU and the industry. The chapter concludes with practical recommendations to both parties. Keywords: European Union (EU); international maritime trade; shipping industry; Somali piracy; UN World Food Programme (WFP)