Pirate Attacks Down in 2024, But Seafarer Hostage-Takings Rising

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The good news: There were slightly fewer pirate attacks globally in 2024 compared to recent years. The bad news: Instances of seafarers being kidnapped by pirates is on the rise.

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The International Maritime Bureau released a report showing that there were 116 incidents of pirates targeting ships globally in 2024, four fewer than in 2023. At the same time, 126 seafarers were taken hostage last year, compared to 73 and 41 in the two preceding years, respectively.

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Previously, there was particular focus on the Red Sea and the Gulf of Guinea. Several countries sent warships to both areas to protect maritime traffic from frequent pirate attacks. International efforts in the regions, combined with improved regional cooperation, have proven effective, with the number of incidents declining.

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However, pirates continue to pose a threat to maritime shipping and the safety of seafarers in many parts of the world. It is especially concerning that 2024 saw a significant rise in the number of seafarers taken hostage. A recent roundtable with leaders from BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, INTERTANKO, and INTERCARGO emphasized the need to raise awareness of seafarers' safety beyond the shipping industry in order to combat the threat of piracy.

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