What is the legal framework that governs territorial claims in Antarctica, and how effective is it?

Antarctica is a unique continent that has been a subject of territorial claims from multiple nations. As of 2021, there are seven countries that claim sovereignty over parts of Antarctica, including Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom. However, these claims are not universally recognized and are subject to the legal framework that governs territorial claims in Antarctica.

The legal framework that governs territorial claims in Antarctica is the Antarctic Treaty System, which was signed in 1959 by 12 countries, including the seven countries that claim sovereignty over parts of Antarctica. The treaty sets aside Antarctica as a scientific preserve and prohibits any military activity on the continent. The treaty also requires that scientific research on Antarctica is freely shared among nations and that any territorial claims are suspended until 2048.

The Antarctic Treaty System has been largely successful in maintaining peace and stability in Antarctica. However, some concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of the treaty in dealing with environmental issues and in regulating commercial activities in the continent. There are also ongoing debates about the validity of territorial claims and the need for a permanent resolution to the issue.