Antarctic Treaty/
Overview
The Antarctic Treaty, signed on 1 December 1959 and entered into force on 23 June 1961, is a global agreement that regulates international relations with respect to Antarctica, the only continent without a native human population. The treaty, currently with 54 parties, sets aside Antarctica as a scientific preserve, establishes freedom of scientific investigation, and bans military activity on the continent.
History
The Antarctic Treaty was the first arms control agreement established during the Cold War era. The origins of the Antarctic Treaty System can be traced back to the International Geophysical Year (IGY) of 1957-58. During the IGY, scientists from 12 countries conducted coordinated scientific research in Antarctica, which led to an increased understanding of the value of the continent for scientific research.
Provisions
The main provisions of the Antarctic Treaty are that:
- Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only (Article 1)
- Freedom of scientific investigation in Antarctica and cooperation toward that end shall continue (Article 2)
- Scientific observations and results from Antarctica shall be exchanged and made freely available (Article 3)
Parties to the Treaty
As of 2021, there are 54 parties to the Antarctic Treaty: 29 Consultative Parties and 25 Non-Consultative Parties. Consultative Parties have voting rights at the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings (ATCMs), while Non-Consultative Parties do not.
Governance and Administration
The Antarctic Treaty does not provide for the establishment of a central administrative organization, but it does provide for the conduct of consultative meetings among the Contracting Parties. The meetings are known as Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings (ATCMs) and are held for the purpose of exchanging information, consulting on matters of common interest, and formulating recommendations to the Contracting Parties.
Environmental Protection
The Protocol on Environmental Protection was adopted in 1991 and entered into force in 1998. It designates Antarctica as a natural reserve, devoted to peace and science, and sets out environmental principles for the conduct of all activities.
Future of the Treaty
The future of the Antarctic Treaty is subject to various challenges, including climate change, increased tourism, and potential resource exploitation. The treaty is scheduled for review in 2048, at which point decisions will need to be made regarding its continuation and potential modification.