Maritime security

Contemporary societies are more dependent on the sea than ever before. Global trade, supply chains, energy, communication and the green energy transition all require a safe and secure marine environment.

Yet, the combination of geopolitical tensions, armed conflict, crime, terrorism, new weapon technologies, as well as pollution and climate change, poses significant threats not only to the opportunities of the blue economy but also to the general health and safety of the marine environment.

These threats can amplify social, economic and political pressures. While new technologies offer important solutions, they also introduce new risks. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres has said, without maritime security, there can be no global security.

UNIDIR seeks to promote common understandings around maritime security challenges and provide innovative policy solutions for a more secure, sustainable and predictable ocean environment.