What is the process for establishing a territorial claim in Antarctica, and what criteria must be met?

Antarctica is the only continent on Earth without a native human population and is governed by a unique international legal regime, the Antarctic Treaty System. Under this regime, territorial claims are suspended, but countries may establish scientific research stations and undertake scientific research.

The process for establishing a territorial claim in Antarctica is complicated by the Antarctic Treaty System. While the Treaty does not recognize any territorial claims, it also does not prevent any claims from being made. Seven countries currently have claims in Antarctica, some overlapping. These countries are Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom. No new claims have been made since the signing of the Treaty.

For a country to establish a territorial claim in Antarctica, it must meet certain criteria, including:

• Demonstrating a historic, geographic, or scientific interest in the claimed area;
• Providing evidence of the country's ability to occupy and use the claimed area;
• Providing evidence of the country's effective exercise of sovereignty over the claimed area; and
• Ensuring that the claim does not conflict with the Antarctic Treaty System.

Any new claims would likely be met with international scrutiny and could have significant geopolitical implications. As such, it is unlikely that any new territorial claims will be made in the near future.