Somali pirates are groups of armed criminals who hijack ships off the coast of Somalia. They began their activities in the early 2000s, taking advantage of the lack of a stable government in the region. These pirates often demand large ransoms for the safe return of the ships and their crews, leading to significant economic impacts on global shipping routes. The rise of Somali piracy has prompted international efforts to combat it, including naval patrols by countries like the United States and European Union. While some progress has been made, the issue remains a challenge, highlighting the need for long-term solutions to improve security and stability in Somalia.