Maritime Security Issues
| Date | Monday, April 6, 2009 |
| Location | Cannon House Office Building, Room 122 |
The Security for a New Century Study Group was honored to host Vice Admiral Kevin J. Cosgriff, former Commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, for a discussion of current issues in maritime security. His presentation focused on the northwest Indian Ocean region and the necessity of a lawful maritime order to ensure responsible and safe use of the ocean environment.
The Indian Ocean region, particularly near Southwest Asia, is home to over fifty nations, a variety of cultures, significant natural resources, and crucial navigation routes used by both naval and merchant vessels. Commerce, fishing, and military/naval infrastructures depend on the safety and stability of this region. The definition of maritime security, therefore, entails a combination of regional security, global economic stability, and local prosperity. In discussing concerns related to maritime security, however, it is important to differentiate between tactical threats and strategic risks.
Threats may include violent extremists, pirates, and uncooperative nation states, while risks are defined by regional instability, economic disruption, and damaged reputations. Piracy, however, requires a closer analysis. At present, it does not pose a high-level tactical threat to the United States, but it may be considered a higher risk to other states in the region. The cost of piracy does not yet contribute to any major economic disruption, but the Somali pirate network is an organized crime entity whose behavior may become contagious. These organizations and their cohorts could engage in other illegal activities on the high seas, leading to more complex concerns.
While regional countries are ultimately the key players in maritime security, the United States can contribute its naval expertise and moderate views, while striving to develop a long-term perspective. The international community as a whole would benefit from building lasting relationships in the region in order to create a safe and responsible maritime order.
“Security for a New Century” is a bipartisan study group for Congress. We meet regularly with U.S. and international policy professionals to discuss the post-Cold War and post-9/11 security environment. All discussions are off-the-record. It is not an advocacy venue. Please call (202) 223-5956 for more information.