For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear waste from European nations turned up in these same waters when the 2005 tsunami pushed hundreds of illegally dumped barrels to shore.
The international community, including the U.S., sat on the sidelines and did nothing about these issues. Somali fishermen formed vigilante bands to drive off or capture the foreign boats, and from these humble beginnings, spawned today's large-scale piracy. No doubt, these pirates have become more sophisticated and organized and their objectives have gone beyond protecting local fishing areas.
The world's response has been to send military vessels to patrol the waters and protect vessels passing through. Clashes, arrests and rescue operations have occurred, but with the pirate threat still increasing, there has been talk of escalating military operations as well as arming merchant ships.
Unfortunately, there has been little mention of a humanitarian mission or efforts to help restore order and governance in Somalia. A U.N. conference will gather donors for a mission to help rebuild Somalia, but there is little optimism given the focus on piracy and the difficulties in getting involved in Somalia.1|2|Next Pag
There is no doubt that piracy should be dealt with, but the world's naval response is a short-sighted one that may be ineffective because it doesn't address the real causes behind Somalia's piracy, which lie in the country's economic and political problems.
For Somalia, one of the world's most dangerous and poorest countries, its troubles have continued since a 1991 civil war that practically shattered the nation into fiefdoms and breakaway territories. A string of feeble governments existed with little authority while the country was racked by fighting, natural disasters and disorder. All aspects of a modern state, including national institutions, the rule of law and social services have since disintegrated. The U.N., African Union and NGOs are or have been involved in relief and peacekeeping missions, both proving inadequate and ineffectual.
In 2006, an Islamist movement captured the capital Mogadishu and was able to rule over a significant area, but was quickly driven out by Ethiopian troops supported by the U.S.
At present, the country is ruled by several warlord factions, Islamic groups and a weak Transitional Federal Government.
Over 400,000 are estimated to have died in Somalia's 18 years of civil strife, and over a million have been made homeless. At least 73% of the population earn less than US$2 a day and millions depend on food aid, according to the U.N. While an informal economy does exist, the lack of law and authority as well as poverty means there are little real jobs and business and education opportunities.
Most pirates operate from Puntland, an area in northern Somalia that has functioned as an autonomous region since 1998 though not actually seceding from Somalia. Like the rest of Somalia, Puntland is impoverished, though it is more stable.
With a long coastline abundant with fish and marine life, fishing was one of Puntland's main industries. With Somalia's breakdown and the lack of a coast guard or navy to protect their waters, foreign fishing vessels were quick to take advantage by encroaching into the waters off Puntland and fishing with impunity. More insidious, nuclear wasteRead Full Article »
