Piracy in the straits of Southeast Asia : an analysis of the impact and effectiveness of securitisation.

45 p.For centuries, the seas around the Southeast Asian countries, particularly those surrounding the littoral states of Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have had experienced piracy attacks. Although the regional states have had attempted to curb such attacks, the urgency to handle the situation has taken on a more urgent note in recent years; especially given indications that the pirates have collaborated with terrorist organisations. To deal with the incidences, the littoral states have taken several actions to enhance their security. This has led some international relations specialists to argue that the enforcement strategies were a result of the regional governments having successfully securitised the piracy issue. However, conducting anti-piracy drills and launching coordinated exercises cannot be qualified as a successful securitisation.Master of Science (International Relations