Each is an international scandal but the international community has not been able to straighten it out. These cases remain inconclusive. I have called them episodes, because if the collective will of the maritime community is there, they should be pursued to logical conclusions. To pave the way for future directions, it is useful to know the recent past, to know where we stand. The saga of Anna Sierra in particular is a classic, with mind-boggling events.
Transparency is absolutely essential if the suppression of piracy is to move forward.
At present, the situation is virtually bogged down. What we need is a set of basic international norms for all nations to comply with. How do we ensure compliance. Exhortation will not work. There must be enforceable clear-cut penalties that bite to deter violation.