Private Military Companies
In the maritime context, Private Military Companies (PMCs) are private businesses that provide armed and unarmed security services, typically to shipping companies. These services are often used to protect vessels, cargo, and crew from threats such as piracy, especially in high-risk areas like the Gulf of Aden or the Strait of Malacca. PMCs operate under the laws of the flag state of the vessel they are protecting and must adhere to international maritime law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They are often composed of former military personnel and are equipped with firearms, protective gear, and sometimes even small patrol boats. The use of PMCs in maritime security has been a subject of debate due to concerns about accountability, use of force, and legal jurisdiction. However, they have also been credited with significantly reducing the incidence of piracy in certain regions.
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