Port Security Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Port Security - Research Paper Example In 2008, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) estimated a total 8.17 billion tons of goods, or 80% of the global international trade to have passed through seaborne channels and ports worldwide3. However, there is no international standard for security being implemented worldwide, with port security at the mercy of the host countries4. In the United States, seaborne transportation systems are vital to the national and international commerce of the country. Approximately 95% or over $740 billion or 2 billion tons of products pass through marine ports5. As majority of commercial goods passing through maritime ports of entry, the United States Department of Homeland security recognized the necessity of ensuring that the supply chain necessary for economic activity and prosperity should not be disrupted. As economic growth relies on the supply system to provide the necessary products necessary for trade, the Department treats the supply with grave importance as it â€Å"feeds critical domestic infrastructure and support (America’s) way of life.†6 As President Barrack Obama put it, economic activity relies on the global supply system and any disruption on the system, either by natural or terrorist activities, can gravely â€Å"impact global economic growth and productivity†, thus the need to address the threats and ensure the continuous flow of supply vital to trade and the economy.7 Defence IQ defines port security as â€Å"security that refers to the defense, law and treaty enforcement, and counterterrorism activities that fall within the port and maritime domain. It includes the protection of the seaports themselves, the protection and inspection of the cargo moving through the ports, and maritime security.†8 Following the 9/11 attacks in 2001, the necessity of securing ports of entries came under greater attention. As the New York Times reported in an article in 2012, many terrorists