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IMO encourages member governments to provide needed naval, aerial surveillance, and other resources. shipping in the area, although they differ from Soma- lia-based piracy in several ways and to date have not involved long-term hijack for ransom. The sub-regional integrated coast guard network is a joint IMO/MOWCA project aimed at reinforcing cooperation among member states. Its purpose is to strengthen coast guard functions in the area in the face of mounting problems of piracy, armed rob- bery, and other illicit acts against ships. Continued Cooperation The depth of concern for international piracy is amply demonstrated by the levels of cooperation and coor- dination among naval and other forces from several countries that have assembled in the Indian Ocean region and the Gulf of Aden to escort ships carrying humanitarian aid to Somalia and to protect vulner- able shipping. Guidelines Interim guidance on the use of privately contracted armed security personnel is available at: www.imo.org/OurWork/Security/news/Pages/default.aspx. "Guidelines to Assist in the Investigation of the Crimes of Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships," are intended to be used in conjunction with the existing IMO-developed "Code of Practice for the Investigation of the Crimes of Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships," to help investiga- tors collect evidence in support of prosecutions. Unfortunately, there is no easy and quick solution to the problem of piracy and armed robbery. Many challenges remain, but ongoing efforts to tackle the problem are showing some success. The right support from the international community can bring about more effective results and eventually lead to a long- term solution. About the author: Ms. Tracy Peverett is head of Maritime Security at the IMO. She provides secretariat support to IMO committees and working groups, and advises IMO member governments, international orga- nizations, and non-governmental organizations regarding maritime security, piracy, and related issues. She was previously a senior secu- rity analyst for the Canadian Coast Guard. Bibliography: "Best Management Practices for Protection Against Somalia Based Piracy," Marine Security Council, Circ.1339. 14 Proceedings Spring 2012 www.uscg.mil/proceedings