Chapter 18 - Public policy and security partnerships

Abstract

Improving the security of goods moved globally in maritime commerce is a huge undertaking that is beyond the capabilities of both nations and industry. The only other option is to engage in partnerships, whether these are between nations, multiple agencies with a government, multiples firms potentially representing multiple industries, or combinations that could be deemed public-private partnerships. The concept of partnerships is not a new one as this chapter explores how these have been devised since the mid 20th century. Moreover, the lessons learned from one cooperative venture then became the basis for succeeding ones. Note, too, that the emphasis on securing maritime trade has not necessarily shifted from addressing the drug trade to one of focusing on terrorism, but one of acquiring multiple missions.