Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting

Topic: Facilitating Orderly Scientific Investigation in Antarctic Region

Working Language: English

Delegation: Double Delegation

Rules of Procedure: Beijing Rules of Procedure (Motion-oriented)

Introduction to the Committee and Topic:

The Antarctic region, universally referred to as “a nature reserve dedicated to peace and science,” is a remote yet crucial area of immense scientific significance. The 21st century has witnessed an exponential growth in scientific endeavors in Antarctica. By far, it has hosted over 40 year-round scientific stations and 36 seasonal facilities, supported by 30 nations. This has been compounded by increasing personal and organizational scientific exploitation tours thanks to broader access to the continent. Nevertheless, scientific investigation has inevitably brought about a series of threats to antarctic terrestrial, including environmental pollution, the introduction of non-native species, and the destruction of natural habitats. Concurrently, scientific research also faces its own challenges, such as inadequate protection for personnel, impeded transportation, and insufficient technical support. These dilemmas underscore the need for enhanced cooperation among capable parties and the development of more targeted policies.

Coming into force in 1961, the Antarctic Treaty laid the groundwork for subsequent legal agreements and policy frameworks that together formed the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS). According to the Treaty, states were guaranteed continued freedom to conduct scientific research in the antarctic region. Besides, the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) stands as the most authoritative platform for pooling expertise for the purpose of recommending measures to governments in furtherance of the principles and objectives of the Treaty. Over the past decades, the Meeting has made pivotal contributions to addressing scientific concerns, including telecommunications, meteorology, and environmental impact assessments.

Therefore, the directors hope that delegates can collaborate to cope with the multifaceted challenges confronted by scientific activities in the antarctic region, while devising concrete and practical ways out in this committee. Delegates are encouraged to thoroughly comprehend the foundational texts, delve into the current obstacles, and try to make a maximized consensus. We are looking forward to striking a harmonious balance between investigation and conservation on this invaluable land.