Abstract
This article argues that maritime piracy in Southeast Asia has again become a problem. The rising numbers of piracy incidents that have occurred in the Asian region during the last decade are described. The complexity of modern-day piracy is pointed out, along with political, economic, & social developments that have contributed to the increase & form of modern piracy. Distinctions are made between “common sea robbers” that commit fast hit-&-run attacks on vessels for the purpose of lining their own pockets & “social pirates” that commit violent ambushes on small vessels like pleasure yachts & fishing boats. While common sea robbers tend to be small, unsophisticated groups, social bandits are usually heavily armed with semi-automatic rifles or similar weapons & are characterized by a much higher level of organization. The link between piracy & both smuggling activity related to the booming black market & the activities of terrorist & separatist movements is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the need to develop social, economic, & political strategies to reduce pirate attacks.