ABSTRACT
Antarctica is exceptional. The coldest, windiest, iciest, driest, and most remote of continents is widely celebrated for its rich history of exploration, science, and diplomacy, and for its exceptional beauty. It is also exceptionally important. Since its discovery, scientists have documented that the Antarctic is vital to Earth systems, and despite its harsh conditions, Antarctic waters teem with life. Indeed, Antarctica has some of the world’s healthiest marine ecosystems. Antarctica’s resources have largely been protected by remoteness and ice, but geopolitical tensions are emerging as power shifts around the globe. Here, we explore the spatial dimensions of national science programs, fishing activities, and conservation initiatives, to better understand past, current, and future geopolitics of the Antarctic region. Historically, Antarctic science is undertaken not just for the sake of science but to advance political aims. Some science bases are strategically placed, and science funding can be “geopolitical.” Geopolitical issues outside of the Antarctic have the potential to put stress on the region’s diplomatic stability. The current dispute over fishing in the South Georgia area can potentially unravel long-practiced diplomatic norms. Conservation initiatives, such as protected areas on land and in the ocean, serve as important tools for protecting biodiversity and ecosystems – especially in a changing climate. However, these initiatives have been fraught with geopolitical tensions with some accusing nations of using conservation to exercise power. The Antarctic Treaty System includes the suite of agreements governing Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. It includes instruments that established the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources which is responsible for the conservation of biodiversity in the Southern Ocean, including the sustainable management of Southern Ocean fisheries, and the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, which is responsible for managing Antarctica under the terms of the Antarctic Treaty and its Environmental Protocol. These bodies face the enormous responsibility of ensuring the region does not become a place of conflict. Past diplomatic successes, such as the Antarctic Treaty itself, signed at the height of the Cold War, the negotiation of the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty in 1991, and more recently the adoption of the world’s largest marine protected area in Antarctica’s Ross Sea, demonstrate international leadership. These accomplishments inspire hope that despite external political tensions, the Antarctic continues as a global international exemplar: a region forever dedicated to peace, science, and conservation.
