Real Pirates on Our Global Seas

The Truth Behind Pirates of the Caribbean and Beyond

 With the rising popularity and devoted fans of Disney’s ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ the world is smitten by the glorified fantasy portrayed on the big screen. Based on 18th century history and tales, Pirates of the Caribbean has captured the essence of adventure, thrill of the seas, and the glamour of the ancient explorers. Fast forward three centuries, and the seashore looks much different. Real pirates still roam a variety of shorelines and bodies of water around the globe, committing criminal acts and sabotaging hundreds of trading and transportation efforts.

The definition of ‘pirate,’ according to the Piracy Reporting Centre based in Kuala Lumpur, is “"An act of boarding or attempting to board any ship with the intent to commit theft or any other crime and with the intent or capability to use force in the furtherance of that act." This includes both armed, and unarmed acts of theft, and can result in severe penalties. With the rise of globalization, and increased traffic of trade on the sea in the 21st century, reports of pirate-related incidents are on the rise. Goods transported from one country to another are always at risk for theft and criminal behavior. Pirates today may not wear the bandana, but they still carry the same agenda as the pirates of yesteryear.

Pirates are essentially thieves, often working in groups and coordinating both large and small-scale attacks. Today’s pirates can make use of the internet and other technological advances that were inconceivable in previous centuries. Despite positive progress of technology, only responsible crew members and seafarers can take advantage of it. Pirates on the open water can track, coordinate, and organize just as fast as their anti-pirate initiatives.