Notes on the Lecture by Secretary General Mr. Antonio Gutierrez

Introduction

• Acknowledgment of the Presidency of Greece for convening the debate.
• Focus on strengthening maritime security through international cooperation.

Importance of Maritime Security

• Maritime security is essential for global security.
• Dependence on oceans for:
  • Trade and transport of goods, ideas, and cultures.
  • Biodiversity and natural resources.
  • Economies and jobs in maritime industries.

Current Threats to Maritime Security

• Traditional and emerging challenges:
  • Contested boundaries.
  • Resource depletion at sea.
  • Geopolitical tensions leading to competition and conflict.
• Key issues affecting maritime security:
  • Piracy and armed robbery.
  • Trafficking, organized crime, terrorism at sea.
• Statistics:
  • 2025 saw a 47.5% increase in reported piracy incidents compared to 2024.
  • Significant increase in incidents in Asia, especially in the straits of Malacca and Singapore.
  • Attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden disrupting global trade.
  • Ongoing issues in the Gulf of Guinea including piracy and drug trafficking.
  • Increase in cyber threats targeting ports and shipping companies.

UN Initiatives for Maritime Security

• UN agencies supporting regional security initiatives globally:
  • Addressing insecurity in various regions like Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, Gulf of Guinea, Persian Gulf, and Black Sea.
  • Building strong maritime forces and legal systems in affected countries.
  • Successful reduction in piracy incidents in West and Central Africa.

Key Areas for Future Action

1. Respect for International Law

   • International legal regime as the foundation for maritime security.
   • Importance of state commitments to implementation and conflict resolution via UN charter.

2. Addressing Root Causes of Maritime Insecurity

   • Need to tackle poverty, lack of livelihoods, and weak governance.
   • Collaboration with impoverished coastal communities for sustainable opportunities.
   • Building capacity in developing countries through technology and training.

3. Partnerships at All Levels

   • Involvement of all stakeholders:
     • Coastal communities, governments, regional groups, shipping companies, and civil society.
   • Focus on the protection of women and girls affected by piracy and human trafficking.
   • Enhanced coordination and stronger maritime governance needed.

Conclusion

• United Nations' commitment to support member states for peaceful and secure maritime spaces.
• Urgent call to action for collective efforts to address maritime security challenges.