Antarctic Treaty

• Provides legal framework for the region beyond 60 degrees south latitude.

• Reserves the region for:
  1. Peaceful purposes
  2. Prohibits nuclear explosions or radioactive wastes
  3. Permits inspection of installations
  4. Defers territorial claims

• Treaty signed in Washington, DC in 1959 by 12 nations—by July 1988, 38 nations were signatories.

• Original treaty became effective in 1961 and for a period of 30 years the parties agreed to set aside their territorial claims, however, the treaty is non-expiring and member nations must adhere to the agreements and conventions unless they give 12 months advance notice that they intend to withdraw.

• Subsequent agreements negotiated since 1959 include:
  1. Environmental protection measures for expeditions, stations and missions.
  2. Specially protected areas.
  3. Protection of seals and marine living resources.
  4. Exploration for and exploitation of mineral resources—1988 agreement.