Influence of Religion on Modern Piracy: A Socio-Legal Analysis

Abstract

Research suggests that piracy is linked to religion through politics, ocean security and trade. Pointedly, it appears that terrorism also links piracy to religion. However, studies analysing piracy have neglected to explore it. This article uses a doctrinal legal methodology to examine the linkages between piracy and religion. It shows that from the classical era through the golden age to the modern era, piracy and religion are intertwined, and terrorism appears evident in the process. This is revealed in piracy in Southeast Asia and the Gulf of Aden. The article argues that piracy and religion linkage presuppose a forceful and violent control over people’s lives for economic, security and political hegemony. Thus, terrorism, in some cases, becomes a conduit through which piracy and religion are joined. Given the importance of technology in criminal acts, especially in communicating, recruiting and locating targets etc, the use of social media becomes key in terrorising and hijacking vessels. Consequently, the article suggests a sociolegal strategy for curbing piracy by enforcing antipiracy legislation and using social media to reaffirm the significance of religion in crime reduction, including piracy.