Cooperative Momentum? The Antarctic Treaty System and the Prevention of Conflict

Abstract

The Antarctic Treaty and the Antarctic Treaty System created on its basis are unique in many respects and represent an example of non-standard solution of some difficult problems. One of the greatest achievements of the authors of the Treaty was without any doubt the creation of a zone of peace and cooperation in Antarctica. In difficult conditions of discord in the issue of territorial sovereignty, political rivalry of States in that region and tension in relations between East and West they managed to incorporate in this important international legal instrument principles and provisions which for almost thirty years successfully managed to avoid the threat of transforming Antarctica into a source of tension and conflicts and to assure broad international cooperation in that region.