The UN Security Council recently convened to address growing concerns over maritime security in response to traditional threats and new technological risks. José Raúl Mulino, President of Panama, emphasized the significance of maritime security for global commerce, noting that approximately 80% of world trade is conducted via sea routes. However, alarming reports indicate a surge in piracy and armed robbery, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea, where incidents increased by 47.5% in early 2025 compared to the previous year.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) highlighted that nearly 150 incidents of piracy and armed robbery were reported in 2024, with Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez underscoring the fundamental connection between maritime safety and economic stability. Traditional maritime threats are now compounded by complex criminal networks that link piracy with terrorism and financial crimes, as pointed out by Interpol Secretary-General Valdecy Urquiza.
Technological advancements are also introducing new security challenges. Cyberattacks threaten to disrupt shipping routes, compromise sensitive data, and potentially cause environmental disasters. The digitalization of ports has exposed them to cyber vulnerabilities, with automated systems at risk of malfunctions due to criminal activities. Urquiza noted that cybercriminals are increasingly using artificial intelligence to launch attacks, adding another layer of complexity to maritime security.
Geopolitical instability further compounds these threats. Attacks on commercial vessels by Houthi forces in the Red Sea have increased maritime trade costs and disrupted navigation through key waterways like the Suez Canal. In July, Houthi attacks led to casualties and forced ships to alter their routes, drastically reducing the number of ships transiting the canal and causing significant revenue losses for Egypt.
In response to these challenges, Mulino urged nations to adhere to international regulations and ensure equal access to vital maritime passages. He referenced the Panama Canal’s successful strategies over the past 25 years, which have enhanced security and doubled its capacity.
Overall, the combination of traditional maritime threats, technological vulnerabilities, and geopolitical tensions poses a multifaceted risk to global maritime security, demanding collaborative international efforts to address and mitigate these risks effectively.
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