Pax Antarctica

Journal Article · · Bull. At. Sci.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1080/00963402.1984.11459242· OSTI ID:6712757

Shapley, D

Twelve nations signed the 1959 Antarctic Treaty pledging arms control and demilitarization, which allows the countries operating on the continent to reduce their costs and avoid conflict. Efforts to develop nationalism over the years as more countries joined the treaty (there are now 16 voting members) and as the 1991 date for reviewing the treaty approaches are not threatening because the arms control arrangement complements the pursuit of national self-interest and allows cooperative research programs to flourish. The treaty freezes all disputes over territorial claims, allowing parties to gain, while preventing them from losing what they think is important. Military interest in Antarctica has diminished partly because new technology has eliminated some of its former strategic importance. The treaty also succeeds because the East-West political balance of the world has held. 13 references, 1 figure.

• Research Organization: Georgetown Univ. Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington, DC
• OSTI ID: 6712757
• Journal Information: Bull. At. Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: Bull. At. Sci.; (United States) Vol. 40:6; ISSN BASIA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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293000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
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ANTARCTIC REGIONS
ANTARCTICA
COOPERATION
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
POLAR REGIONS
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
TREATIES