The concept of maritime security encompasses various elements that are essential to maintaining safety and order in maritime environments. Bueger (2015) highlights that maritime security encompasses a range of issues including piracy, terrorism, and environmental concerns. Central to this discussion is the need for a comprehensive approach that integrates various stakeholders, including governments, industries, and local communities, to address prevailing threats collaboratively.
Germond (2015) emphasizes the geopolitical dimensions of maritime security, noting that the strategic importance of maritime routes and resources often drives international power dynamics. Given the complexity of global trade and geopolitical interests, maritime security cannot be isolated from broader political and economic contexts. This interconnection is crucial for developing effective maritime governance frameworks that can harmonize national interests with global security concerns.
The challenge posed by transnational organized crime at sea, as illustrated by Bruwer (2019), further complicates the maritime security landscape. The author argues that such crimes, including piracy, human trafficking, and illegal fishing, directly undermine the sustainable development goals (SDGs) by threatening livelihoods and ocean health, particularly in regions like the Western Indian Ocean. Effective counter-piracy measures and collaborative efforts are necessary to mitigate these threats and promote sustainable practices.
Bueger and Edmunds (2017) call for a shift beyond “seablindness,” advocating for a new agenda in maritime security studies that recognizes the cultural, social, and environmental dimensions of maritime governance. They argue that the existing frameworks often overlook local traditions and practices, which are crucial for crafting inclusive and sustainable maritime policies.
Moreover, Kismartini et al. (2024) contribute to the discourse by conducting a bibliometric analysis, identifying research trends and proposing future agendas for maritime security policy. Their insights reflect the growing recognition of the need for interdisciplinary approaches that integrate social sciences, economics, and environmental studies to comprehensively address maritime security challenges.
McDonald (2021) notes that ecological security is increasingly intertwined with maritime security. The deteriorating health of marine ecosystems due to climate change adds another layer of complexity to maritime governance. This trend is echoed in discussions by Bennett et al. (2021) on blue growth and blue justice, emphasizing that strategies for ocean economy must not only focus on economic growth but also human rights and social equity.
Certain studies zero in on specific geographical contexts and practices. Fabinyi et al. (2022) and Cohen et al. (2019) examine the implications of small-scale fisheries on social justice, asserting that equitable management of marine resources must consider the rights and needs of vulnerable communities. These insights are essential for developing so-called “blue justice”—a framework ensuring that those most affected by maritime policies are included in decision-making processes.
In conclusion, the discourse surrounding maritime security is iteratively evolving, increasingly recognizing the need for inclusive, interdisciplinary approaches that address the interconnectedness of ecological, social, and economic dimensions. As global maritime dynamics become more complex, effective governance frameworks must evolve to ensure sustainable and equitable outcomes in maritime spaces.
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