Maritime security is also being undermined by challenges around contested boundaries and navigation routes, and depletion of natural resources — including illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing — to armed attacks and crimes at sea, such as piracy, robbery and terrorist acts, Ms. Viotti added.

Unregulated fishing and other crimes such as piracy, theft and terrorist acts in international waters are also among the big problems, along with the use of limpet mines and drones, she added.

‘These growing and interlinked threats call for a truly global and integrated response. A response that addresses these challenges directly as well as their root causes – including poverty, a lack of alternative livelihoods, insecurity, and weak governance structures.’

pgh/Pll/msm / ifb