| Summary/Abstract |
Private security companies have recently been the subject of increased attention not only because of their large-scale involvement in US operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, but also due to the employment of privately contracted armed guards to protect ships, crews and cargoes at sea – particularly in the Gulf of Aden. Most of these operations, however, have taken place in a legal grey area, with few agreed standards to regulate the work of private security providers. Dirk Siebels explores the ongoing efforts by governments, international organisations and the industry to address this legal vacuum and establish effective guidelines.
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