Somali piracy refers to the acts of robbery and violence at sea that originated off the coast of Somalia in the early 2000s. These incidents often involved armed groups hijacking commercial vessels, holding crews for ransom, and demanding money from shipping companies. The rise of piracy was fueled by political instability and economic hardship in Somalia, leading many to turn to piracy as a means of survival. International efforts to combat Somali piracy have included naval patrols and cooperation among various countries. Organizations like the United Nations have also worked to address the root causes of piracy, promoting stability and development in Somalia. While piracy has decreased in recent years, it remains a concern for maritime security.