Virginia Lunsford:

As the rest of the world considers what to do about the increasingly problematic modern Somali pirates, it would behoove us to think beyond superficial and simple naval solutions on the high seas and consider the five factors underlying the long and productive careers of the Mediterranean corsairs. To analyze Somali piracy more deeply and ultimately suppress it, we must ask ourselves these vital questions:

* Who are these Somali pirates?
* Where do they find recruits, and how many of them are available?
* Why do they take up piratical activities?
* Do we know the exact number, character, and location of all of their havens?
* Are these pirates organized, and if so, how are they organized, and is this organization strong and effective?
* Do the Somali pirates enjoy any outside sources of support?states or groups (including terrorist groups) that are providing money, goods, weapons, intelligence, or other help to their cause?
* Do these pirates maintain close bonds between one another with a keen sense of solidarity and cohesion, and if so what is the nature of this solidarity, from where does it come, and is it powerful and abiding?

From the archive:

Arrrrg, Mateys! Ye can be the captain of the seven seas of your tub! Shiver me timbers!

See also:

“It was wonderful,” said Ms. Fatuma, 21. “I’m now dating a pirate.”

What Makes Piracy Work?