Combating piracy strategically: Analysing the successes and challenges of NATO and EU interventions off the Somali coast

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study analyses the successes and challenges of NATO and EU interventions off the coast of Somalia. It begins with identifying the mandate of multinational naval missions to fight piracy. After discussing achievements and significant developments in anti-piracy operations, the paper scrutinises NATO’s successes and challenges in taking up the fight against piracy in the Horn of Africa region. The article continues with providing reasons for the EU’s involvement in combating Somali piracy and explains the need for the continuous expansion of Operation Atalanta’s mandate. It then elaborates on the EU’s successes and challenges with regards to addressing the threat of piracy off the Somali coast. The study argues that piracy can only be eliminated if multilateral coordination at sea and ashore is enhanced; law enforcement becomes more effective; operational information is more widely shared; and security capabilities are strengthened in the Horn of Africa region.