Antarctic treaty under stress as member countries gather in Italy

For nearly seven decades, the Antarctic Treaty has been the cornerstone of peace and stability in the Antarctic region. However, as geopolitical tensions rise, maintaining consensus among the treaty’s signatories has become increasingly challenging.

David Hik, chief scientist at Polar Knowledge Canada, emphasized that the assumptions of peace and stability in Antarctica are being tested. The treaty, signed by 58 countries, including Canada, aims to preserve the continent for scientific research and peace while prohibiting military and mining activities. However, only half of the signatories have voting rights on treaty matters. Canada has been striving to secure consultative party status to have a say in decision-making, but has faced opposition from Russia, which is pushing for its ally Belarus to also be granted consultative party status.

In an effort to raise Canada’s profile in the Antarctic region, the Canadian Antarctic Research Expedition (CARE) 2025 mission embarked on a historic voyage aboard HMCS Margaret Brooke. Led by Chief Scientist Thomas James, the mission aimed to study the effects of climate change on Antarctica, including melting glaciers and declining sea ice. The expedition highlighted the interconnectedness of the Antarctic ecosystem with global climate patterns, emphasizing the importance of understanding and protecting this fragile environment.

Amidst these scientific endeavors, Canada is also keeping a watchful eye on security concerns in the polar regions. Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized Canada’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty in the Arctic, prompting the Royal Canadian Navy to deploy to Antarctica to enhance its understanding of geopolitical pressures at the southern pole. Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee expressed concerns about potential threats to the stability of the Antarctic Treaty, warning against militarization and mining activities that could jeopardize the region’s peace and scientific research.

Navigating through extreme weather and ice-filled channels, HMCS Margaret Brooke faced challenges in reaching its destination beyond the Antarctic Circle. Commander Teri Share had to make critical decisions to navigate the vessel through treacherous conditions, underscoring the importance of experience and caution in Antarctic waters. Despite the obstacles, the Canadian Navy successfully reached Rothera Point, marking a historic milestone in its Antarctic exploration.

As the Antarctic Treaty meeting in Milan approaches, Canada continues to advocate for consultative party status to uphold peace and scientific cooperation in Antarctica. The challenges of maintaining consensus in the face of geopolitical tensions highlight the need for international collaboration and vigilance to protect the unique and fragile ecosystem of the southern pole.