ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the origins and development of national Antarctic programmes within a context of understanding this in relation to the interface of politics and science in Antarctica. It describes the attributes of national Antarctic programmes and the general organizational framework within which countries operate and sustain their long-term science activities and the associated logistics and infrastructure needed to maintain a scientific presence in Antarctica. Long-term involvement in Antarctica required development of the appropriate infrastructure, which contributed to the maintenance of long-term national Antarctic programmes. A national Antarctic programme is a permanent, long-term plan for a country's activities in the continent. The vast differences in the organizational structures and scientific capabilities of the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties countries result in different national styles and standards in the implementation of the various Antarctic programmes. Implementing a national Antarctic programme comprises all the activities relating to the conduct of scientific research in the Antarctic Treaty area.
