8.9C Antarctica

• • IGO management is through the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS)
  • The ATS is a set of agreements that regulate the international relations and activities in Antarctica, the only continent without a native human population 
• The main principles of the ATS are: 

  • Antarctica shall be used for peaceful purposes only
  • Antarctica shall be a natural reserve devoted to science and environmental protection, and no mineral exploitation or commercial activities are permitted (although due in 2041)
  • Scientific investigation and exchange of information shall be encouraged and facilitated in Antarctica, results shall be made available to the international community
  • The legal status of Antarctica and the respective rights and claims of the parties shall not be affected by the Treaty,
• Successes of the ATS:

  • Number of countries that have signed the Treaty now stands at 56 
  • There have been no territorial disputes
  • No military activities have happened
  • Scientific research has been key in recognising atmospheric problems