When was the Antarctic Treaty signed and when did it enter into force?
The Antarctic Treaty was signed by twelve nations on the 1st of December 1959. It officially entered into force on the 23rd of June 1961.
The Antarctic Treaty was signed by twelve nations on the 1st of December 1959. It officially entered into force on the 23rd of June 1961.
The treaty prohibits nuclear testing, military operations, economic exploitation, and new territorial claims. The Protocol on Environmental Protection further bans all activities related to mineral resources except science.
As of 2024, there are 58 state parties to the treaty system. Twenty-nine countries hold consultative voting status including all twelve original signatories.
The Antarctic Treaty Secretariat operates from Buenos Aires, Argentina since September 2004. Albert Lluberas was elected as Executive Secretary in June 2017 during the 40th meeting held in Beijing.
Australia enacted the Antarctic Treaty Act 1960 and the Environment Protection Act 1980. U.S. law applies to crimes committed by or against American nationals outside other jurisdictions with Special deputy U.S. Marshals stationed for enforcement presence.