Maritime security and the law: a new piracy statute for the 1990s

The question of updating maritime law concerning piracy is considered in depth. A description of the origins of each article in Chapter 81 of the United States is given. The problems which exist with these laws in their present form and some suggested corrective provisions are also considered. This article addresses itself to all marine professionals, whatever their field of expertise. The macro-view presented hopefully: 1) will convince people that piracy is a contemporary maritime reality, 2) define the general problems with America´s piracy law as it now exists, 3) suggest requirements for a new piracy statute, which must deal with the realities of contemporary piracy and the weaknesses in United States law, and 4) offer one view on how such a change in the law can be brought about