06 A safe future at sea

Statistics show that the situation has improved in recent years as a result of the terrorist attack of 11 September, the tsunami disaster, and the growing commitment shown by many countries in the struggle against violence at sea. The countries concerned, companies, and insurers must therefore continue their efforts in the future.

Possibilities on a state level

In order to create a uniform legal basis for prosecution throughout the world, the port and flag states should make every possible effort to transpose statutory recommendations and existing international laws into national law. The establishment of multinational patrols, as practised by Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, for example, should also be vigorously pursued.

The contribution to be made by shipping companies and crews

Besides the lobbying performed by associations and organisations, action must also be taken by the shipping companies and crews themselves. In keeping with the concept of holistic risk management, they should analyse and evaluate their risks as precisely as possible and make judicious use of security technology. Furthermore, the measures offered by international regulations to combat terrorism and increase the security of vessels are still inadequately used as a means of defence against pirate attacks. And, should a vessel be attacked, the incident must be reported to the authorities without delay.

Risk management by risk experts

Insurers and reinsurers are also called upon to devote more attention to the subject of piracy. The work of national and international insurance associations includes making piracy a subject of political debate with a view to getting the statutory measures enforced.

When underwriting war covers, insurers and reinsurers can analyse the risk with great precision and should therefore use their know-how to support their clients, be it in marine cargo, hull, or P&I insurance.