THE SEMINAR
18 The seminar programme (annex 2) consisted of eight lectures addressing the following subjects:
Presentation No.1
Purpose and intent of the seminar and workshop
19 Mr. E.E. Mitropoulos (IMO) explained the purpose and intent of the seminar and workshop, which was to improve safety at sea and in port areas through assisting Government officials in the countries concerned to enhance their capability for preventing and suppressing piracy and armed robbery against ships in their coastal waters and ports through the implementation of the guidelines developed by IMO and any related technical measures elaborated during the meeting. The meeting would also discuss the development of co-operation agreements between neighbouring countries with respect to combating the piracy and armed robbery threat through establishing a regional approach to the problem, where appropriate. The seminar and workshop was intended for those in charge, or expected to be in charge, of port or coastal security and for Government officials with responsibility for ports, security-associated legislation or law enforcement. It would also be of interest to entitles interested in ports, shipping or recreational yachting activities.
He went on to give a brief historical background of IMO's involvement in efforts undertaken worldwide to combat piracy and armed robbery against ships since the Government of Sweden brought the matter to the Organization's attention in 1983; and traced the development of modern piracy and the actions that IMO had taken in this regard. These consisted of a series of resolutions, circulars and guidance to Administraions, shipowners and seafarers on proactive measures they should take before entering areas known as piracy-infested areas and providing advice on how to react if attacked. Mr. Mitropoulos concluded his presentation by referring to the guidance materials which had been issued by other international organizations, notably the ISF and the IMB on the subject.
Presentation No.2
Development of modern piracy
20 Speaking on the development of modern piracy, Mr. B.A.H. Parrit described the methods used by modern pirates to board a ship underway and their activities once they succeed in doing so. He contrasted the modern day pirates with their counterparts of olden days and observed that while there was a combination of political will and naval power to deal with pirates in those days, that does not appear to be the case now. In his opinion, the reason for this situation is the reduction in the size of most regular navies and the strong nationalistic awareness and extreme sensitivity over issues of sovereignty. Moreover, even though naval vessels have improved their weapon capability and can go much faster, they are designed to fight sub-marines or aircraft and to fire and avoid missiles but are not suitable for use to chase or capture small fast boats. He examined the effect of the recent revolution in communications on modern piracy, observing that it is now possible for gangs of pirates working in collaboration with their agents in loading ports, to determine the nature of cargo carried by ships. With information about the departure and destination of the ships and regular update on the position the pirates are now able to more accurately predict when the ships will arrive at a place where they can attack with minimum risk of being interrupted by law enforcement agencies. After reviewing the options open to seafarers to protect and defend themselves he was of the opinion that the IMO is the most appropriate international forum to develop an new initiatives in this matter.
