Contemporary piracy and maritime terrorism / Martin N Murphy

Contends that the majority of modern acts of piracy are little more than low-level robberies producing only modest gains for the perpetrators. There have been suggestions that terrorists could take advantage of piracy for their own ends but there is little evidence of this actually occurring. Other risks associated with piracy are that it implies littoral states are unable to exercise control, or that the state may be actively involved through corrupt officials, and finally piracy can be associated with organised crime. If not controlled at an early stage petty piracy could escalate to worse acts and closer links with terrorists. Considers various actual and potential threats to shipping and maritime trade, and looks at efforts to contain them. Notes that as world trade grows the increasing number of potential targets may eventually may make them irresistible targets for terrorism.