The agreement transformed the region into a nature reserve with an emphasis on science. The Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1959, establishes boundaries between countries that claimed parts of the continent and also provides for the demilitarization of the region and freedom of scientific research.
The fourth of the 14 articles of the treaty states that the continent does not belong to any nation. The document states: “No act or activity occurring during the validity of this Treaty shall constitute a basis for the proclamation, support or challenge of any claims to territorial sovereignty in Antarctica or for the creation of sovereign rights in Antarctica.”
However, seven countries currently still claim parts of Antarctica. Are they:
- Argentina,
- UNITED KINGDOM,
- Chile,
- Norway,
- New Zealand,
- Australia,
- France.
Claims that are justified by natural area expansion. In 1904, Argentina became the first country to have a stationed base and declare sovereignty in the region. In 1908, the United Kingdom made its own claim to territory taking into account its sovereignty over the Falkland Islands. Finally, Chile also asserted its claim in 1940.
Fight over the same territory. According to the BBC, Argentina considers part of Antarctica to be an extension of its southernmost province, as do Tierra del Fuego, Malvinas (or Falkland Islands), South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.