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The Antarctic continent and the surrounding Sub-Antarctic region are naturally the other side of the coin to the Arctic. Like the Arctic, the Antarctic continent is not immune to the effects of climate change and a tug-of-war over access to land and resources. However, as the continent itself is populated only by research staff and tourists, the nuances of these issues differ immensely.

The Institute for China-America Studies is committed to contributing research on developments in the Antarctic to ensure that geopolitical interactions and scientific endeavors are conducted in a peaceful and secure manner. This issue tracker is a part of our commitment to ensuring that the public, researchers, and policymakers have easy access to the latest updates regarding the Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic regions.

Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, February 2008. In the foreground is the ceremonial South Pole and the flags for the original 12 signatory nations to Antarctic Treaty. (NSF photo by Dwight Bohnet)

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Antarctic Maritime Claims

The Maritime Claims Tracker explores long-standing sovereignty and sovereign rights disputes in the Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic regions. Although no consistent population lives on the Antarctic continent aside from researchers and tourists, some countries have laid claims that could impact access to the region and its resources.

Antarctic Maritime Claims - All

Antarctic Research Stations

Important sites for research on climate change, global navigation, burgeoning space-related technologies, and more. Countries that operate research stations in the region must do so under the confines of the Antarctic Treaty System, which allows for and encourages international cooperation on scientific endeavors.

Antarctic Research Stations-All

Antarctic Marine Conservation

The Marine Conservation Tracker maps out the regimes and planning systems concerning the conservation and management of marine living resources in the Antarctic. Through coordination between the Antarctic Treaty System and the United Nations, the region presents a unique case of science-based international cooperation.

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