ILLUSTRATES: Yasmin Ayumi
In theory, no – the continent has no government and no permanent inhabitants. In practice, seven countries claim part of the place (see below), but this dispute is suspended until 2040 by the Antarctic Treaty, which establishes that it is a neutral territory, dedicated only to scientific research, and prohibits the installation of military bases, the exploration of natural resources and the testing of weapons, among other uses. This document was signed in 1959, during the Cold War (that is, it was a peace treaty at a time of tension) and entered into force in 1961. More than 50 nations adhered to the treaty, among them Brazil, which in 1982 inaugurated the Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station there.
ICY DISPUTE
The map above shows the areas claimed on the continent by Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, United Kingdom, Norway and New Zealand. The shares claimed by Argentina, Chile and the United Kingdom overlap in some parts. Also, under the Antarctic Treaty, the US and Russia have the right to claim territory if they want. But, until 2040, the continent is a neutral land, dedicated to science
WANT TO PLAY IN THE SNOW?
There are now around 70 research stations on site, operated by 29 countries. In order to carry out studies in Antarctica, it is necessary not only to respect the Antarctic Treaty, but also the Madrid Protocol on Environmental Protection, which came into force in 1991. It prohibits violent confrontations, activities with radioactive waste, fights over territory and any act that represents risk to wildlife
THIRD INTENTIONS
Until 2040, the year in which the treaty must be revised, any exploration aimed at obtaining natural resources, such as the extraction of minerals and oil, is prohibited. This discussion should become more controversial in the future: in addition to having oil in its underground, Antarctica also has a large reserve of fresh water – a natural resource that is becoming more and more precious.
READ MORE
–What animals live in Antarctica?
–What is life like for researchers in Antarctica?
– Is it colder at the North Pole or at the South Pole?
SOURCES Itamaraty, Ministry of the Environment, Globo Repórter, COP Gray