The 47th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) is underway in Milan, Italy, from June 23 to July 3, 2025, with the Russian delegation, led by paleontologist Pavel Lunev, in attendance.
The Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) is a framework for international cooperation in Antarctica. The Treaty, signed in 1959, dedicates the continent to peaceful purposes, promoting scientific research, and prohibiting military activities. The ATCM is the primary decision-making body of the ATS, where member states discuss and agree on measures related to the continent. The ATCM's agenda includes a wide range of topics, from environmental protection and scientific collaboration to tourism and logistical challenges. Russia, as a Consultative Party, has a significant role in shaping the future of Antarctica.
The Antarctic Treaty, a cornerstone of international cooperation, ensures that Antarctica is used exclusively for peaceful purposes. It prohibits military activities, including the establishment of military bases and the testing of weapons. The Treaty also promotes international cooperation in scientific research, encouraging the free exchange of information and personnel. The Treaty's commitment to environmental protection is another key aspect, with measures in place to minimize human impact on the fragile Antarctic ecosystem. Geological activities in Antarctica are permitted under the Treaty, but are subject to strict regulations to ensure they do not lead to resource exploitation. These activities are primarily focused on scientific research, such as mapping the continent's geology and studying its climate history. However, the potential for resource exploration remains a sensitive issue, and the ATCM closely monitors all geological activities to ensure they comply with the Treaty's principles.
Russia's past actions, including opposing new marine protected areas and blocking conservation proposals in 2023 and 2024, are under scrutiny. These actions raise concerns about Russia's commitment to the environmental protection principles of the Treaty. Furthermore, the international community is paying close attention to Russia's geological activities in Antarctica, particularly those related to potential resource exploration. The Treaty prohibits any measures of a military nature, but allows for scientific research, including geological surveys. The balance between scientific research and the potential for resource exploitation is a key focus of the meeting.
The international community is closely monitoring Russia's activities, emphasizing adherence to the Antarctic Treaty for peaceful research and environmental protection.